Red and Black insects .....do you know what they are?

teeteerilly


Joined: 31/07/2009
Posts: 14

Message Posted:
21/07/2010 09:16

I wonder if anyone can help to identify these insects,I seem to have so many in the garden.They are about 1-2cm long,look a bit like a flat elongated ladybird,red with black dots/markings on them.Everytime I pull up the weeds they come up through the hole that remains.Noticed a few about 1 week ago but this morning there seems to be lots more.Do they destroy plants,cant say that I have noticed any on the actual plants.Have tried to google them but nothing similar came up,also cant find a camera to take a pic.

zeytinlidere


Joined: 18/07/2008
Posts: 112

Message Posted:
21/07/2010 11:04

Hi,



They are known locally as firebugs, they come this time of year every year, but don't worry they are harmless.

teeteerilly


Joined: 31/07/2009
Posts: 14

Message Posted:
21/07/2010 12:05

Thank you very much,at least I know what they are now.Much appreciated.

basil


Joined: 10/04/2009
Posts: 168

Message Posted:
21/07/2010 12:17

Not harmful to you, but they suck sap from your plants causing them to wilt and die. Squidge (perhaps with gardening gloves), or apply a size 9 firmly.

zeytinlidere


Joined: 18/07/2008
Posts: 112

Message Posted:
21/07/2010 14:56

Hi Basil,



İf these insects are firebugs then they only eat dry ripe seeds and will not 'suck sap'. İf you really want to get rid of them you can spray with a mild soapy water solution.

Tenakoutou



Joined: 27/07/2009
Posts: 4110

Message Posted:
21/07/2010 22:05

These insects are called 'Vampire Ladybugs' - if a cloud of 'em attack you, they'll suck you dry quick as a wink!



Best to arm yourself with one of those Chinese electronic 'tennis rackets' everytime you go out in the garden - I think Mr. Pound stocks them.