TARGET PESTS: DESCRIPTION: Convergent ladybird beetles (Hippodamia convergens) are shipped as adults in containers, cloth, and mesh bags. Storing the beetles can be done at a temperature of 40 to 60°F for 1 - 3 weeks. Ideally ladybugs should be released in the evening or very early morning when it is cool or overcast so they move more slowly. In order to improve performance, mist foliage beforehand. Ladybug beetles can begin reproducing immediately with ample food and moisture. Several generations may occur during one season. Hippodamia convergens are collected from over-wintering sites instead of insectaries (it is not cost effective to rear Ladybugs in insectaries due to the amount and cost of food it would take to produce an adult Ladybug). Aggregations are formed in mountain canyons after the beetles have migrated from valley feeding areas. They are refrigerated until sold. Some researchers and many users have observed immediate and substantial predation and egg laying upon release. STRATEGIC CONSIDERATIONS:Pesticides and even wetting agents and spreader-stickers may adversely affect ladybugs survival. Broad spectrum and systemic insecticides are toxic to ladybugs. |
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