Green Lacewings

Mallada signata

The larva of lacewing is a predator of a wide range of pests including aphids, moth eggs and small larvae, scales and whiteflies.

Green lacewing eggs are laid on fine stalks.

Target Pests

Aphids, moth eggs and small larvae, scale insects, whitefly.

Crops suitable

Field vegetables, orchards, vines and protected crops

General description

Adults, 15 mm long with long lacelike wings. Eggs, laid on fine stalks. Larvae, pinchers for attacking prey, carry debris on their backs.

How to use

Lacewings are supplied as eggs from which larvae hatch shortly after arrival. Supplied either as loose eggs or with eggs adhered to small strips of paper.
Place the lacewing eggs through infected plants.

Release rates

Rates will vary depending on the crop, the pest to be controlled and its density. The following is a guide only:

Protected crops: apply to pest infested areas initially at higher rates of 1,000 eggs per 200 m2. Folowed by regular releases of 1,000 eggs per 1,000 m2.

Field crops: use innoculatively by applying 1,000 - 4,000 eggs per hectare. Preferably make two applications 10-14 days apart.

Ordering

Order the week before desired despatch if possible.
Bugs for Bugs Mundubbera Qld. ph. 07 4165 4663

Other biocontrol agents commonly used with lacewings

Persimilis, Encarsia, Hypoaspis, Cryptolaemus, Chilocorus in protected crops.

Trichogramma wasps in field vegetables