Delphastus catalinae - Whitefly Control
LIVE DELIVERY GUARANTEE
TARGET PESTS:
Feeds on most Whitefly species including: Greenhouse Whitefly (Trialeurodes vaporariorum), Tobacco Whitefly, Banded-winged Whitefly (Trialeurodes spp.), Sweet Potato Whitefly, Silverleaf Whitefly (Bemisia spp.), Woolly Whitefly (Aleurothrixus floccosus), Azalea and Hibiscus Whitefly (Pealius spp.), Cloudy Winged, Citrus and Rhododendron Whitefly (Dialeurodes spp.), Citrus Blackfly (Aleurocanthus woglumi); They will also feed on other small insects, such as spider mites, broad mites and aphids.
ABOUT DELPHASTUS CATALINAE:
Delphastus catalinae, commonly known as the Delphastus Beetle, is a remarkable predator in the world of biological pest control. These small native beetles, typically measuring around 1-2 mm (0.04-0.08 inches), possess a rounded and compact body shape. Their overall appearance is shiny and black, with distinctive reddish-brown legs and antennae.
These beetles are agile and quick in their movements, allowing them to navigate through dense foliage and actively hunt for prey. Delphastus beetles are most effective when whitefly populations are high, making them suitable for addressing severe infestations. Delphastus beetles do not enter diapause or hibernation during fall and winter, allowing for year-round utilization both indoors and outdoors.
Research has found that each beetle can eat up to 10,000 whitefly eggs. Adult females must consume at least 100 whitefly eggs a day to produce up to 4 eggs per day. Larvae are creamy white in color, resembling small alligator-like insects.
Delphastus works best if your whitefly population is high, while Encaria formosa and Eretmocerus eremicus do better with light to moderate infestations. Delphastus do not enter diapause/ hibernation during the fall and winter, therefore they can be used indoor or outdoors all year long.
INTRODUCTION RATES:
Temperature: 77°-86°F, avoid temperatures below 50°F
Humidity: 60%+
100 adults per "hot spot" or 10 adults per plant, weekly, 3-4 times.
5 beetles per 10 sq.ft. weekly, 3-4 times.
It's important to note that these introduction rates serve as general guidelines and may vary based on the specific pest species, the crop or plant being treated, and level of infestation. Proper monitoring of the infestation and the subsequent effectiveness of the released beneficial insect population is crucial for determining the success of the biological control strategy.
STORAGE:
For best results, release immediately. If storage is necessary, do not refrigerate. Store in a cool dark place for no longer than 24 hours.
LIFE CYCLE:
The lifecycle of Delphastus catalinae takes approximately 20-30 days, and consists of several stages including egg, larva, pupa, and adult.
Adult females lay their eggs near Whitefly colonies, often directly on Whitefly eggs or pupae. Eggs hatch in 3-5 days. After hatching, the larvae actively consume whitefly eggs, larvae, and pupae for approximately 7-10 days. Then, they pupate for about 6-8 days, emerging as an adult for several weeks to a few months.
It's important to note that these time-frames are approximate and can be influenced by factors such as temperature, humidity, and the availability of prey. Monitoring the development and activity of beneficial insect populations, along with environmental conditions, can help determine the progress and effectiveness of their role in pest control efforts.
TARGET PESTS
Most Whitefly species including Greenhouse, Banded-Winged, Sweet Potato, Silverleaf, Woolly, Azalea, Hibiscus, Citrus, Rhododendron, & more.
Also preys on Citrus Blackfly, Spider Mites, Aphids, & more when Whiteflies are scarce.
PRODUCT DESCRIPTION
LIVE DELIVERY GUARANTEED
Great choice for an active infestation due to its high consumption rate. Combine with Encarsia formosa for total control.
CROPS
CROPS
Vegetable Crops
Soft Fruit Crops
Ornamental Crops
USAGES
Greenhouses
Interiorscapes
Field Crops
Gardens
Orchards
INTRODUCTION RATES
1-5 beetles per 10 sq. ft., weekly, 3-4 times
Or 100 beetles per "hot spot"
Temperature Range: 50-90°F
Humidity: 60%+
APPLICATION
PRO TIPS
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GOOD BUG DIET
Maintaining your growing operation relies on well-fed beneficial insects as your natural defenders. By providing dependable food sources, you enhance their strength and effectiveness. Learn more here. - For complete whitefly control, use in conjunction with Encarsia formosa and Eretmocerus eremicus.
- Great choice for active infestations due to its high consumption rate.
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Pesticides, even-wetting agents, and spreader-stickers may adversely affect beneficial insect survival. Broad spectrum and systemic insecticides are toxic.
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Depending on the size and type of plants, the number and type of pests, other predator and parasite populations, and temperature, the frequency of releases may be affected.
STORAGE
For best results, introduce immediately upon receipt. If storage is necessary, store at 39-46°F for no longer than 48 hours. Store out of direct sunlight. Do not freeze.
DISCLAIMER
Store Policies
Please review our store policies below on Shipping & Processing, Live Delivery Guarantee, and Returns/Replacements. By placing your order, you are agreeing to these policies. Thank you!
Changes/Cancellations:
Please note that our Live Delivery Guarantee pertains specifically to the condition of the insects at the time of delivery and does not cover instances where insects may perish at a later stage. We will exercise our discretion to assess whether your situation falls within the time frame qualifying for our policy. Factors such as the insect species, hatching time, temperature conditions, and other relevant considerations will be taken into account to determine the applicability of the guarantee. For non-hatching insects, you must contact us within 48 hours of delivery in order to be considered for the guarantee. Replacements will only be processed/shipped on Wednesdays & Thursdays.
Upon receiving your package from NaturesGoodGuys, we highly recommend opening it immediately and checking for a sticker indicating the need for refrigeration. It's crucial to carefully read the instructions included for specific storage information to ensure the well-being of your beneficial insects. We are not responsible for replacements due to incorrect storage methods.
One important thing to note is that we do not expect ice packs to remain frozen or cold upon delivery. Ice packs serve as a temporary measure to help maintain moisture and temperatures during transit.Please keep in mind that some insects may require time to adjust and recover from transit before they become active. If you don't observe immediate movement upon opening the package, this doesn't necessarily mean they are not viable. Give them a little time, and monitor for signs of activity as they settle into their new environment. Most of our insects are difficult to see without magnification.
Some species/quantities do not have multiple shipping methods to choose from because they require short transit time for viability. For those who have concerns about the well-being of their insects during transit, we suggest selecting overnight shipping. This ensures that your beneficial insects spend minimal time in transit, reducing stress and maximizing their chances of arriving in optimal condition.
1. Customer input the incorrect shipping information: If the customer contacts our help line BEFORE their order has been processed to correct an address error we will be able to perform this change for you so that you can receive your order.