Researchers discovered a new ladybird beetle species, Parastethorus pinicola, on a Japanese black pine at Kyushu University’s Hakozaki Satellite. The beetle measures approximately one millimeter in length. Image Credit: Munetoshi Maruyama / Kyushu University
Animals JapanTiny beetles reveal hidden biodiversity
Scientists have discovered two previously unknown ladybird beetle species, showing that important biodiversity can still be found in everyday places and deepening understanding of ecosystems in Japan.
“Even in a city or on a university campus, there are unknown species living right beside us,” said Munetoshi Maruyama, Associate Professor at the Kyushu University Museum.
One of the newly identified species, Parastethorus pinicola, was found on a Japanese black pine tree at Kyushu University and measures just over one millimetre in length. The three-year study also identified a second new species, Stethorus takakoae, after researchers examined around 1,700 specimens and resolved decades of confusion over related beetles. The findings provide a clearer picture of biodiversity across Asia and highlight how even the smallest, often overlooked insects play an important role in supporting healthy ecosystems.
