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Abstract

Asian lady beetle (Harmonia axyridis Pallas) was introduced in USA and Canada at the beginning of the last century and in Europe in 1995 as a biological tool to control aphids. Harmonia axyridis cause three important problems: it has negative impact on native lady beetles (because of big aphid consumption capacity native lady beetles are left without food, and in lack of aphids H. axyridis is attacking native lady beetles), changing taste of wine (in autumn), and as allergen. In 2010 it was recorded in Croatia, in Ratkovica (Pleternica), Kutjevo and in area of Semeljci. In this paper are given literature data about Harmonia axyridis seasonal indoor allergen. In Asia, H. axyridis overwinters in cracks, rocks, or in concrete objects and sometimes in leaf litters. In North America and Europe it overwinters in big swarms by hundreds and thousands in buildings (houses, schools, work places, storages). When the beetle is alarmed it produces reflex bleeding, it releases hemolymph from their tibiofemoral joints. H. axyridis as allergen can cause rhinitis, asthma, chronic cough and urticarial. First reported lady beetle allergy was in 1999 at two adults in Virginia and Georgia, USA. Patients sensitive by exposure to cockroach allergens were also sensitive to H. axyridis allergens. Human exposure to H. axyridis is greatest during the October and November and in the spring after hibernation. H. axyridis will sometimes bite humans producing discomfort and redness response. Methods to control H. axyridis almost not exist. In Europe, North America and Asia natural enemies are not known. Mechanical control includes removing large aggregates of beetles with vacuum cleaner and sealing windows, cracks and small holes to prevent entrance for beetles. Best control method could be used by pheromone trap in September and October. In North America it is sometimes advised to apply insecticides at the exterior part of buildings, as a preventive method in late September and October. Harmonia axyridis, Asian lady beetle as invasive species has to be controlled and education about this new allergen problem is needful.