As an entomologist with a focus on insect life cycles, I can tell you that the larval stage of a ladybug, also known as a ladybird beetle or Coccinellidae, typically lasts between 20 to 40 days. However, this duration can vary depending on factors such as the species of ladybug, environmental conditions, and the availability of food.

The larval stage is a critical period in the life cycle of a ladybug, during which they undergo several molts and grow significantly. Ladybug larvae are often referred to as "aphid lions" because they are voracious predators of aphids and other small insects. They start off quite small and gradually increase in size as they feed and develop.

After the larval stage, ladybugs enter the pupal stage, which is a transitional phase where they transform into adults. This stage usually lasts for about a week, after which the adult ladybug emerges, ready to continue the cycle by laying eggs and starting the next generation.

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Larvae don't enter the pupal stage until they reach a certain weight, generally about 15 milligrams. A larva going through its final molt attaches itself to a leaf surface to pupate. Depending on the temperature, it takes from three days to two weeks for the adult ladybug to emerge from the pupa.read more >>