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These Small, Predatory Beetles Feed On All Mealybug Species As Well As Aphids & Soft Scale!
Cryptolaemus montrouzieri are effective predators for use as a biological control of mealybugs and other soft scale. These fast-feeding, highly mobile ladybird beetles actively seek out mealybugs, consuming upwards of 250 mealybugs in a lifetime. Both larvae and adults are predatory and reduce the need for sprays; thereby, making them versatile tools in integrated pest management and resistance management programs.
Appearance: Cryptolaemus montrouzieri is a small dark brown ladybug with an orange head. Females lay up to 500 eggs during their lifespan. The larvae are up to 13mm long and are white with a wax like covering (similar to mealybugs). The pupae are found in sheltered places; stems, underside of leaves, greenhouse structures.
Preferred Food: The adults and larvae feed on all stages of the mealybugs. These mealybug predators are most effective in severe infestations where food sources are readily available. Young Cryptolaemus larvae prefer mealybug eggs and smaller stages of the mealybug. When no mealybugs are available, they will feed on aphids, immature life stages of scale, mites, thrips, whitefly, and other soft bodied insects.
Optimal Conditions: Cryptolaemus work best in temperatures between 64 – 81° F and relative humidity of 70% or greater. They are ideally suited for greenhouses releases.
Application rates:
5 per infested plant
250 - 2,000 per acre.
First release should be in early spring.
This Product Controls These Pests or Diseases: Multiple species of Mealybug (Planococcus citri, Pseudococcus sp.) including the Vine Mealybug (Planococcus ficus).