Cryptobug Predatory Beetle

Scientific name: Cryptolaemus montrouzieri.

Cryptolaemus montrouzieri is a species of ladybird beetle native to eastern Australia. The mealybug destroyer ladybird adult beetle and larva feed on mealybugs and other scale insects.
Cryptolaemus montrouzieri is now commercially used as a natural enemy biological control agent to manage mealybug and soft scale insect parasite infestations in citrus orchards, hoop pine and custard apple plantations worldwide, trees for which Cryptolaemus montrouzieri seems to exclusively show interest. 
The adults and larvae of these predatory beetles eat scale insects, especially mealybugs. Females lay their eggs among the egg sac of mealybugs. Larvae feed on mealybug eggs, young crawlers and their honeydew.
Cryptolaemus montrouzieri can be easily handled without dying or becoming inactive.

Use for:

• All stages of all mealybug species.

• For blanket release.

• For effective control of citrus mealybug and grape mealybug combine with parasitic wasps.

Mode of action:

Adults and larvae consume the mealybugs completely. Visually, successful control results in mealybugs being consumed entirely.

Product specifications:

Application:

• Deploy Cryptobug on rock wool slabs or in application boxes close to or at a hotspot.
• Apply in the evening.
  

Dosage:

The dosage of Cryptobug depends on climate, crop and mealybug density and should always be adjusted to the particular situation. Introduction rates typically range from 2 to 10 per m²/release. Releases should be made in infested areas only and repeated if necessary.

Environmental conditions:

• The minimum temperature for use of Cryptobug is 16°C / 61°F. However, as Cryptolaemus montouzieri favors high temperatures, Cryptobug is most effective at temperatures between 25°C and 28°C / 68 and 82°F.

Storage:

• Apply as soon as possible after receipt. If necessary, the product can be stored for 1 to 2 days.
• Store at temperatures of 10°C to 15°C / 50°F to 59°F.
• Store in the dark.

Caution:

• Pesticides can have direct or indirect effects on biological solutions.
• Only use products that are permitted in your country or state and crop.