Mealybug Predators

Cryptolaemus montrouzeri

Adult (right) and larva (left).
Mealybugs underneath.

Target Pests

Mealybugs, some scales, macadamia nutborer eggs.

Crops suitable

Citrus, macadamias, custard apples etc, protected crops, atriums.

General description

Small lady beetle with orange head with black wing covers. Lays up to 500 eggs per female. Larvae and adults feed on mealybug eggs and nymphs.

How to use

Crytolaemus are sold as adults in small punnets each containing 40 beetles. Sprinkle adult beetles onto foliage near mealybug infestations.

Release rates

Protected crops: 1-2 beetles per square meter.

Outdoor crops: 1,000 to 2,000 beetles per hectare.

Suppliers

Bugs for Bugs Mundubbera Qld.

Other biocontrol agents commonly used with Cryptolaemus

Used with Aphytis wasps for red scale in citrus crops.

Used with Encarsia, Persimilis and Lacewings in enclosed crops.