Another relatively recent find in Ireland, having first been observed at Craigavon Lakes in Co. Armagh in 2014. It is a relatively small species with a predominantly black body with four red spots on the elytra. The arrangement of the spots is distinctive, with two comma-shaped spots near the edge of the elytra being unique to this species.
Distribution in Ireland: This species has a curiously disjunct distribution in Ireland. First discovered in Co. Armagh in 2014, it has since been found in several counties further south. It has been recorded in Cos. Westmeath, Offaly, Kildare, Dublin, Laois, Limerick and Cork. Considering it is a relatively recent arrival here, it is oddly scattered. It is interesting to note that it has not been found at any nearby sites to its original discovery site at Craigavon Lakes in Co. Armagh.
Habitat: A diverse range of habitats are used in Britain and in Ireland it has been recorded in brownfield land, scrubby grassland and bogland margins. There is little reason to suggest that it should not be found more widely in woodlands, parks, conifer plantations and other habitats as it is elsewhere, particularly as it continues to spread.
Habits: This species feeds on wooly aphids, scale insects and adelgids on a variety of trees and shrubs. Despite its name, there is no particular association with pines and in Ireland it has been found frequently on gorse. It likely inhabits other trees and shrubs here as it does in Britain. It has been observed overwintering among the dense spikes of gorse bushes.
