Cryptolaemus montrouzieri is the Latin name for the Australian ladybug. The Crypto is used as a biological control agent for mealybugs. Both larvae and adults eat mealybugs in several stages, including eggs, larvae and adults. During its life cycle, the Crypto can consume more than 250 mealybug larvae, while adult beetles can sometimes eat as many as 30 per day. We explain why Crypto is an effective pesticide against mealybug.
Application by individuals and hobbyists
It is becoming quite common for individuals or hobbyists to use Cryptolaemus montrouzieri in their homes or small greenhouses to control mealybug populations. The beetles are now widely offered in various life stages. Moreover, they are not dangerous to pets.
Temperature
Effective introduction
The best time to release the beetles is at a cool time of day, near the core of the mealybug problem. That way the control is most effective.
Sensitivity
However, Cryptolaemus montrouzieri is sensitive to temperatures below 16 degrees Celsius, thus limiting its deployment in cool climates. The temperature at which the critters are most active is around 28 degrees Celcius. Above 30 degrees Celcius, however, activity decreases sharply again. Most tropical houseplants are kept between 18 and 25 degrees Celcius, making it a good solution for almost all situations anyway.
Environmentally friendly
The beetle is an extremely environmentally friendly alternative to chemical control, but is often a bit higher in cost. In addition, the beetle is not harmful to the plant and the population starves to death by itself in the absence of sufficient mealybugs.
Conclusion
Crypto is a safe solution against mealybug infestations for individuals. They can be applied to tropical houseplants in almost all situations and are a sustainable solution. However, it can be a more expensive alternative than a chemical pesticide.
