Der Asiatische Marienkäfer als Modell

The harlequin ladybird as a model in invasion biology The harlequin ladybird Harmonia axyridis has been established as a promined model in invasion biology because it particularly suited to test hypotheses explaining the successful spread of some introduced species. Recent research elucidated that H. axyridis carries parasites which can infect native ladybird species if the feed on its eggs or larvae within intraguild predation. Besides these “bioweapons” H. axyridis accumulates small molecules in its hemolymph which provide as chemical weapons protection against pathogens and predators. The application of state of the art genetic tools will help to elucidate adaptations mediating invasive success at the molecular level.