Shiny black and white beetles on aubergine in GH

[WoodyLord]

Hi,
Spotted 2 lovely ladybird-sized beetle on my aubergines. They are black and shiny with an unusual horseshoe white shape at the top of the wing case. I left them to do whatever they were doing. Can't find them after extensive search of images on google.
Any ideas - are they a type of ladybird? I did find some greenfly in the GH so wondered if they were in there for that reason.
Just wanted to know if they are friend or foe.
Many thanks,
Helen

[Parsons Jack]

Hi Helen,

Probably Ladybirds I would think. The Two Spot Ladybird is very variable in colour and shape of spots particularly.
Hope that helps

[WoodyLord]

Thanks for replying - will have another look if I can see them. There were no spots on them at all though - the wing case was totally black. But it was ladybird size and shape so I expect it was. Bad news for the aphids, good news for the aubergines!
Cheers,
Helen

[Parsons Jack]

Hi Helen,

There are some variations of the 2 spot and the 10 spot on this link.

http://www.ladybird-survey.pwp.blueyond ... adalia.htm

[FelixLeiter]

Rhyzobius litura, perhaps.

[Johnboy]

Hi Felix,
Well done. Great to find out. I clicked on the Blue Yonder small photograph and was absolutely captivated! I scrolls on for ages.
JB.

[WoodyLord]

Thanks everyone, I've still seen nothing quite like them - the white marking was above the wing case. Wish I'd got a photo.
All the best,
Helen