Cryptoline Cryptoleamus

  • Cryptoline image
  • Cryptoline image

Cryptoline biological control agent contains Cryptolaemus montrouzieri adults with a feeding strip. Cryptoleamus adults and larvae are predators of mealybugs (Pseudococcus sp.).

Key Features

  • Predator of many types of mealybugs.
  • Aggressively attacks mealybug eggs and crawlers.

Main uses

  • Mealy bug
  • Soft scale

How It Works

Adult female beetles lay up to ten eggs per day and up to 500 eggs in total. The large white cottony larvae of Cryptolaemus should not be confused with its host, which also has hairs and a creamy white color.
  • Adult beetles and young larvae feed on mealybug eggs and young crawlers and instars.
  • Large Cryptolaemus larvae can also consume adult mealybugs.
  • The life cycle of the Cryptolaemus montrouzieri takes from 4 to 7 weeks depending on temperature.
  • Cryptoleamus larvae are also known as ‘a wolf in sheeps clothing’ since the larva look like mealy bug larva and adults.
  • Works best in crops with longer growing cycles.

Available delivery systems

Vials of 30ml (10oz)
  • Each vial contains 500 adult beetles.
  • Food and water source provided in packaging to ensure survival in transit.

Handling & Storage

Instructions for use

  • Open the vial near the mealy bug colonies.
  • Release adults directly onto terminal leaves within the colonies and spread the insects around the area to be treated.
  • Cryptoleamus establishment can be improved by preventing dispersal of insects off the plants.
  • For advice on recommended release rates, consult The Bioline App.

Storage and transport

  • Transport and store in darkness at 6 -10°C.
  • Keep out of direct sunlight.
  • Store in a horizontal position.
  • Use within 18 hours of receipt.