Lindorus lophanthae - Scale Control

$15.00

 

LIVE DELIVERY GUARANTEED

TARGET PESTS:
Broad Range of Scale insects, Aphids, Small Caterpillars, Thrips, & many other soft-bodied insects.

 

ABOUT LINDORUS LOPHANTHAE:
Lindorus lophanthae is a small beetle with a compact and oval-shaped body. It has a shiny black or dark brown coloration and short elytra (wing covers) that leave the abdomen exposed. Adult Lindorus lophanthae beetles measure around 3-5 mm in length.

These beetles are capable of feeding on hard scales, including their eggs and immatures, as well as soft scales. They are extensively utilized in various settings such as orchards, greenhouses, and indoor environments. Given suitable conditions including an adequate food supply, sufficient light, and proper moisture levels, Rhyzobius beetles exhibit rapid reproduction. It is native to Europe but has been widely introduced and established in various regions around the world.

 

RELEASE RATES:
Temperature: 75°-80°F, adult activity has been observed in temperatures as low as 40°F.
Humidity: 60%+

LIGHT INFESTATION: 1-5 Beetles per sq. ft., monthly
HEAVY INFESTATION: 5-10 Beetles per sq. ft., monthly
TREE INFESTATION: 10-40 Beetles per tree, monthly

It's important to note that these release rates serve as general guidelines and may vary based on the specific pest species, the crop or plant being treated, and level of infestation. Proper monitoring of the infestation and the subsequent effectiveness of the released beneficial insect population is crucial for determining the success of the biological control strategy.

 

STORAGE:
For best results, release immediately. If storage is necessary, store at 50°F for no longer than 72 hours.


 

PRO TIPS:
To achieve a comprehensive approach in controlling Scale insects, it is recommended to combine the use of Lindorus lophanthae with other beneficial predators such as Aphytis melinus and Green Lacewing Larvae.

Winter is an excellent time for releasing Lindorus beetles as ant activity decreases due to the lower temperatures. Scale insects produce honeydew, which serves as a food source for ants, which causes the ants to interefere with Lindorus' effectiveness.

 

LIFESPAN:
The adult stage of Lindorus lophanthae can vary depending on various conditions, but generally lasts from several weeks to a few months. During the adult phase, the female beetles actively seek scale insect colonies to feed on and to lay their eggs. The eggs hatch into larvae and begin feeding on scale insects. Over a 10-14 day period the larvae will consume a significant amount of scale per day. Next, they pupate near a food source or in a nearby protected area and emerge as adults, starting the cycle over. Lifecycle takes around 3-4 weeks. 

It's important to note that these time-frames are approximate and can be influenced by factors such as temperature, humidity, and the availability of prey. Monitoring the development and activity of beneficial insect populations, along with environmental conditions, can help determine the progress and effectiveness of their role in pest control efforts.