Observations of the ladybird Platynaspis luteorubra (Goez) on motorway verges along the ring-road of Brussels, with comments on its habitat and host preference (Coleoptera Coccinellidae Chilocorinae)

The ladybird Platynaspis luteorubra (GOEZE) was found at three locations on the motorway verges (9 sits) along the ring-road of Brussels. In Diegem-Zaventem, Groot-Bijgaarden and Machelen adults were collected with white pitfall traps. P. luteorubra preferred short grassland vegetation mowed twice a year and its occurrence and abundance correlated significantly with the presece and nest-density of the and Lasius niger whitch is known as one of its preferred hosts. This myrmecophilic ladybird, classified as a rare coccinellid in Belgium, is probably more common than assumed until now and should be searched for in similar habitats along other motorways.