- Worldwide distribution. Ladybird beetles of different kinds are present in all Pacific island countries. 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.
