There are three records of this species, all from Dublin City between 2020-2023. It is a medium-sized, elongated species with a distinctive marking on the pronotum. The background colour is an orangey-red and the elytra typically has 7 black spots of variable size, although these may be fused or absent.
Distribution in Ireland: Records exist for Dublin City. Given that it has been seen over consecutive years, it has probably established a breeding population. It is a widespread in Britain and is increasing northwards, so it is not unfeasible that it could colonise and spread in Ireland.
Habitat: In Ireland it has reportedly appeared in brownfield land and gardens, and in Britain it is a species of dry sandy or gravelly soils and low-growing vegetation. Coastal habitats and old quarries and gravel pits are often frequented.
Habits: A predatory species which feeds on aphids. It is most likely to be found on low-growing herbaceous vegetation such as Nettle, Hogweed, Ox-eye Daisy, thistles and others growing in coastal areas or areas with open patches of dry soil. Sweep-netting in habitats such as this along the eastern coast is probably the best method to find this species.
