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Data and code from: Species-specific reduction of survival and aphid consumption in ladybirds exposed to prolonged and intensified heat waves

Knapp, Michal1; Cecchetto, Nicolas1; Baudino, Florencia1

Published Jul 21, 2026 on Dryad. https://doi.org/10.5061/dryad.31zcrjf02

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Jul 21, 2026 version files 134.10 KB

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Abstract

Climate change exacerbates heat waves, threatening ecosystems by disrupting species survival and interactions. Insects are highly sensitive to temperature extremes, exhibiting species-specific stress which can impact community dynamics. Ecosystem services, such as pest control, can therefore be reduced by heat stress. We studied how five ladybird species responded to heat wave conditions, focusing on survival and aphid consumption. While survival was generally unaffected by exposure to realistic heat waves (compared to normal summer temperatures), extreme heat wave (+5°C) reduced survival in four out of five species. Interestingly, one of the most vulnerable species to extreme heat waves was the globally invasive Harmonia axyridis, reaching over 50% mortality in less than 2 days. Prolonged exposure to heat waves (over six days) escalated mortality in two species, and significantly decreased aphid consumption in another two species. This study underscores the potential impacts of heat waves on pest control in a warming world.