DERBYSHIRE'S native ladybird population is at risk from a cannibal species from Europe.
The harlequin species is thought to be thriving in the county after first being spotted in the UK ten years ago.
These bugs are bigger than the common native species, have more spots and are eating their way through the indigenous population. There are now thought to be a billion of them in the UK.
Dave Budworth, of the Derbyshire and Nottinghamshire Entomological Society, was concerned the presence of the harlequin could have damaging effects on its smaller neighbour.
He said: "It is a bigger animal than the seven-spot ladybird and it seems to be able to survive in our climate and therefore is quite capable of decimating other species.
"The balance between the two will shift to a new level."
This week is National Insect Week, organised by the Royal Entomological Society, to celebrate all things creepy crawly.
Dr Helen Roy, of the Centre for Ecology & Hydrology, leads the UK Ladybird Survey and is concerned about the impacts the alien ladybirds are having on the ecosystem.
She said: "We recently published research highlighting the threat posed by the harlequin ladybird to other species.
"Seven out of eight species we assessed showed significant declines in distribution in response to the arrival of the harlequin ladybird."
Dr Roy added that this type of situation is often very difficult to contain once a significant population has been allowed to develop.
She said: "Unfortunately, after an invasive alien insect arrives and establishes in a new region it is often extremely difficult to control. This is the case with the harlequin ladybird.
"We have been studying the natural enemies of ladybirds that occur in the UK to see if they have potential to naturally control the harlequin ladybird.
"However, it is highly resilient to natural enemies."
The Royal Entomological Society's director of outreach, Luke Tilley, agreed that the increase in numbers of the harlequin could have a big impact on those of other insects.
He said: "They have been very successful in colonising the UK."
One of the original sightings of the insect was recorded in Derby in 2004.
And this week promotes awareness and appreciation of all bugs, with general populations in decline.
Numbers of popular species such as bumble bees, butterflies and dragonflies in particular are falling.
Mr Tilley said the garden is the perfect place to see a variety of species.
He said: "Wherever you are you can find a whole range of insects."
He offered some expert advice for those interested in using their garden as a sanctuary for them to thrive in.
"Leaving the weeds and letting your grass grow provides more habitat for them to live in," he added.
"Nectar-rich plants and wild flowers such as viper's bugloss and lavender can attract bees and other bugs for those who wish to maintain an attractive outside space."
