Crypotline (Cryptolaemus montrouzieri) is a Coccinellid predator, which is used widely throughout Europe for the control of Mealy Bug pests in indoor ornamentals, citrus and other tree crops. Adults and juveniles of this species are both voracious predators.

Target Crops » All indoor and outdoor crops
Target Pest » Mealybug & soft scale
Target Life Stage » Whole life cycle
Delivery Systems » Vials & tubes

Key Features

• Predator of many types of mealybugs.
• Aggressively attacks mealybug eggs, crawlers, and all larval stages.

Target Pests

• Mealybug
• Soft scale

How It Works

The white cottony larvae of Cryptolaemus should not be confused with their hosts, which also have hairs and a creamy white color.

• Adult beetle and young larvae feed on mealybug eggs and all larval stages including crawlers.
• Large Cryptolaemus larvae can also consume adult mealybugs.
• The life cycle of the Cryptolaemus montrouzieri takes from 4 to 7 weeks depending on temperature.
• Cryptolaemus larvae are also known as ‘a wolf in sheeps clothing’ since the larvae look like mealybug larvae and adults.
• Works best in crops with longer growing cycles and warmer temperature.

Available delivery systems

Vials & tubes

• Each vial contains 25 or 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.
  • Cryptolaemus establishment can be improved by preventing dispersal of insects off the plants.
  • For advice on recommended release rates, consult your technical specialist.

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.