In terms of size, it measures between 5 and 8 mm in length. Its most notable characteristics are its red wings with black spots and its black head with white markings that appear to resemble eyes, although in reality these are located between the spots. There are three black spots on each wing and one between the wings near the head.

It feeds on insects such as aphids, but also other small insects and mites. In times of scarcity, they feed on pollen and nectar. They control aphid infestations, greatly helping agriculture. They are also pollinators. In terms of reproduction, females lay eggs, about 10 to 50, on the leaves and stems of plants infested with aphids. After about 3 to 7 days, the larvae hatch, beginning to eat the aphids on the plant, then going through 4 larval stages. Once completed, it transforms into a pupa, a process that lasts about 7 to 10 days. Inside the pupa, the larva transforms into a ladybug over the course of a week.