Aphids are the preferred food for ladybirds. They are the first thing many people think of when asked about biological control. For rapid reduction of established aphid colonies, the native ladybird Adalia bipunctata is an ideal biological control agent. Adults and larvae are both voracious feeders on most types of aphids found in horticultural crops. They combine well with parasites such as Aphidius species, which take longer to give visible control. They are available as adults or larvae. In greenhouses it is recommended that larvae are introduced into existing aphid colony infestations on the plant.
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Aphid Predatory Beetle
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Adalia bipunctata is an important addition to the aphid control armoury. As a species native to the UK and Europe, it is freely available and not subject to regulatory control.
Open the vial containing the ladybirds and release then directly onto plants with aphid colonies. Ideally, release them when it is cool, to avoid them flying away.
Keep out of direct sunlight
Transport and store at 10-15°C
Use within 18 hours of receipt
Syngenta Bioline Ltd
Telstar Nursery, Holland Road
Little Clacton, Essex CO16 9QG, England
Tel +44 (0) 1255 863 200
Fax +44 (0) 1255 863 206