Cryptolaemus montrouzieri (mealybug destroyer)

Orders for C. montrouzieri must be received by noon on Friday for shipment the following Wednesday. If you need a biocontrol order sooner, please call us at 360-656-6680 and we will work with you to find a solution. We can't guarantee that the item will ship the same day but we will do our best to get it to you ASAP.

TARGET PESTS: Citrus mealybug (Planococcus citri); other related mealybugs.

FOR YOUR FILES: Cryptolaemus montrouzieri Tech Sheet (PDF)

• Description
• Rates
• Release Instructions
• Shipping Information

• Cryptolaemus montrouzieri is the most commonly used biological control for mealybugs. Cryptolaemus is used to control mealybugs mainly in interior plantscapes. They can be used outdoors, but will not survive sub-freezing temperatures. To keep mealybug populations down to acceptable levels in greenhouses, several releases of Cryptolaemus may be necessary, particularly during winter months. They are less effective on longtailed mealybug (Pseudococcus longispinus) because this species lacks the cottony masses Cryptolaemus requires for egg laying.

  Adults and young larvae prefer to eat mealybug eggs, but older larvae will feed on all stages of mealybugs. The adults can fly and cover large areas to search for food. If food is scarce they will also eat soft scales and aphids.

• Low: 0.2-0.4 per square foot

  High: 1-1.2 per square foot

Upon receipt keep out of direct light until ready to release

• To release, walk through the grow area and allow the insects to escape while gently tapping the container if need be. 

• Avoid wearing bright clothing when releasing

• Orders for C. montrouzieri must be received by noon on Friday for shipment the following Wednesday, with exceptions for major holidays. Beneficial insects are normally shipped by FedEx Ground within the state of Washington, and by FedEx Express elsewhere in the USA. Please contact us directly if you require a different method of shipping.