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Instructions for the Use and Release of Mealybug Destroyers
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| Mealybug destroyers (Cryptolaemus montrouzieri) are used against all species of mealybugs and will feed on aphids and soft scale when mealybugs are scarce. Both adult and larval stages are predatory. Immature beetles are covered in a white, wooly material and are very similar in appearance to their prey. Mealybug destroyers are raised and released by the citrus industry in California and are credited with the complete control of the citrus mealybug. |
| Mealybug destroyers should be released within 24 hours of receipt. If necessary, hold at 60-65 deg F. until release. DO NOT store below 50 deg F. as chilling will injure. |
| Release rates are 5 beetles per infested plant, or 5 per square meter of planted area. In orchards release 1,000-2,000 adult beetles per acre of mature fruit trees. Mealybug destroyers should be shaken out close to mealybug infestations at dawn or dusk when they are least active. |
| Note: Ants in the area should be controlled because they will protect mealybugs for their nectar. |
