LIVE DELIVERY GUARANTEED
TARGET PESTS:
Feeds on most Whitefly species including: Greenhouse Whitefly (Trialeurodes vaporariorum), Tobacco Whitefly, Banded-winged Whitefly (Trialeurodes spp.), Sweet Potato Whitefly, Silverleaf Whitefly (Bemisia spp.), Woolly Whitefly (Aleurothrixus floccosus), Azalea and Hibiscus Whitefly (Pealius spp.), Cloudy Winged, Citrus and Rhododendron Whitefly (Dialeurodes spp.), Citrus Blackfly (Aleurocanthus woglumi); They will also feed on other small insects, such as spider mites, broad mites and aphids.
ABOUT DELPHASTUS CATALINAE:
Delphastus catalinae, commonly known as the Delphastus Beetle, is a remarkable predator in the world of biological pest control. These small native beetles, typically measuring around 1-2 mm (0.04-0.08 inches), possess a rounded and compact body shape. Their overall appearance is shiny and black, with distinctive reddish-brown legs and antennae.
These beetles are agile and quick in their movements, allowing them to navigate through dense foliage and actively hunt for prey. Delphastus beetles are most effective when whitefly populations are high, making them suitable for addressing severe infestations. Delphastus beetles do not enter diapause or hibernation during fall and winter, allowing for year-round utilization both indoors and outdoors.
Research has found that each beetle can eat up to 10,000 whitefly eggs. Adult females must consume at least 100 whitefly eggs a day to produce up to 4 eggs per day. Larvae are creamy white in color, resembling small alligator-like insects.
RELEASE RATES:
Temperature: 77°-86°F, avoid temperatures below 50°F
Humidity: 60%+
100 adults per "hot spot" or 10 adults per plant, weekly, 3-4 times.
5 beetles per 10 sq.ft. weekly, 3-4 times.
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, do not refrigerate. Store in a cool dark place for no longer than 24 hours.
PRO TIP:
To achieve a comprehensive approach in controlling Whiteflies, it is recommended to combine the use of Delphastus catalinae with other beneficial predators such as Encarsia formosa and Eretmocerus eremicus.
LIFESPAN:
The lifecycle of Delphastus catalinae takes approximately 20-30 days, and consists of several stages including egg, larva, pupa, and adult.
Adult females lay their eggs near Whitefly colonies, often directly on Whitefly eggs or pupae. Eggs hatch in 3-5 days. After hatching, the larvae actively consume whitefly eggs, larvae, and pupae for approximately 7-10 days. Then, they pupate for about 6-8 days, emerging as an adult for several weeks to a few months.
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.
