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Pacific Pests, Pathogens & Weeds - Mini Fact Sheet Edition

Predatory ladybeetles (083)

Relates to: Biocontrol

Photo 1. Ladybeetle larva.

Photo 2. Ladybeetle larva.

Photo 3. Ladybeetle larvae feeding on aphids. Ants are also present taking the honeydew from the aphids.

Photo 4. Ladybeetle larvae feeding on aphids. The pale yellow slug-like creatures in the centre and to the right are larvae of syrphids or hoverflies.

Photo 5. Adult ladybeetle.

Summary

Worldwide distribution. Ladybird beetles of different kinds are present in all Pacific island coutnries. Ladybird beetles prey on mealybugs, scales, caterpillar eggs, and mites. Both larvae and adults feed on pests.
Yellow-orange eggs in groups are often laid close to aphids.
They differ from plant-feeding ladybird beetles which have: (i) adults - short soft hairs over upper body; (ii) larvae - long stiff spines over the body.
Management: (i) move adults and larvae to colonies of pests; (ii) collect eggs and pupae (look like curled-up larvae), keep in e.g., jam jar and transfer; (iii) grow/encourage flowering plants, e.g., basil, marigolds, and weeds, for nectar and pollen; (iv) use soap, white or horticultural oils, or neem that breaks down quickly.

Common Name

Ladybeetles, ladybird beetles

Scientific Name

The one shown is Phrynocaria sp; there are many others.

AUTHORS Suzanne Neave & Grahame Jackson
Photos 1,3&5 Suzanne Neave, CABI, UK.

Produced with support from the Australian Centre for International Agricultural Research under project PC/2010/090: Strengthening integrated crop management research in the Pacific Islands in support of sustainable intensification of high-value crop production, implemented by the University of Queensland and the Secretariat of the Pacific Community.

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