Cryptolaemus montrouzieri

Cryptolaemus montrouzieri in Bottles

Cryptolaemus montrouzieri, commonly known as the Mealybug Destroyer, is a natural and highly effective solution for managing mealybug infestations. These beneficial beetles, provided in treatment bottles, target mealybugs at all stages of their life cycle, including eggs, nymphs, and adults. Both the adult beetles and their larvae actively suppress pest populations, making them a reliable choice for greenhouses, gardens, and crops.

Adult Cryptolaemus beetles are small, dark brown with an orange head and thorax, while their larvae resemble tiny, fuzzy alligators. Larvae are especially voracious, consuming large quantities of mealybugs, including egg masses, ensuring rapid pest reduction. With their ability to thrive in moderate temperatures, Cryptolaemus beetles are suitable for a variety of environments.

Visible results can typically be seen within 7–10 days of release, as pest populations decline and beetles establish themselves. These beetles are most effective in temperatures above 50°F and cannot survive freezing conditions, making them best suited for controlled environments or areas with mild climates.

Why Choose Bottles?

• Target Pests: Citrus Mealybugs, Comstock Mealybugs, Long-Tailed Mealybugs, and other mealybug species. Also targets the crawling and larval stages of some scale insects.
• Immediate Impact: Adult beetles and larvae begin feeding on mealybug populations immediately upon release.
• Scalable Applications: Suitable for both small, targeted treatments and large-scale infestations in greenhouses and agricultural settings.

How They Work

• Lifecycle:
  • Adult beetles actively hunt and consume mealybugs at all life stages, particularly targeting egg masses.
  • Larvae feed on mealybug eggs, nymphs, and adults, making them highly effective during heavy infestations.
  • Cryptolaemus beetles are shipped with paper strips and honey as a food source to maintain viability during transit.
• Temperature Range: Effective in moderate climates but cannot survive temperatures below 50°F or freezing conditions.

How to Decide How Many You Need

• Light Application: Use 1–2 beetles per sq. ft., as needed.
• Heavy Application: Use 2–4 beetles per sq. ft. for severe infestations.
• Agricultural Application: Use 1,000–2,000 beetles per acre for large-scale pest control.

Pro Tips for Success

• Reintroduce After Cold Weather: Cryptolaemus cannot survive freezing conditions, so reintroduce them after temperatures rise.
• Maintain Moderate Conditions: Ensure temperatures remain above 50°F for optimal beetle activity.
• Combine Strategies: Use alongside other pest control methods to maximize coverage and effectiveness.

Storage and Shipping

• Storage: Release beetles immediately upon arrival. If necessary, store at 45–55°F for no more than 18 hours.
• Shipping: All Cryptolaemus montrouzieri beetles are shipped overnight to ensure live delivery.