Cryptolaemus

Cryptolaemus is a genus of small lady beetles in the family Coccinellidae. The most widely known species is Cryptolaemus montrouzieri, commonly called the mealybug destroyer. Native to Australia, it has been released in orchards and greenhouses around the world as a biological control agent against mealybugs and related pests such as root mealybugs.

Description and biology: Adults are small and oval, typically 4–7 millimeters long, with a pale brown or gray body heavily coated by dense white waxy secretions, giving a fluffy appearance. Larvae resemble mealybugs and are similarly coated with waxy filaments; they are elongated and actively feed on exposed prey. Eggs are laid near clusters of prey. After hatching, larval instars prey on mealybugs and scale insects, then pupate and emerge as winged adults. Development and predation rates vary with temperature and environmental conditions.

Ecology and use in biocontrol: Cryptolaemus montrouzieri is released in citrus, fruit, and greenhouse crops to suppress mealybug populations such as citrus mealybug and vine mealybug. It is mass-produced commercially and used as part of integrated pest management programs. It is valued for feeding on multiple life stages of mealybugs and for potential to establish in suitable environments.

Distribution and status: Native to Australia, it has been introduced to North America, Europe, Africa, and Asia. In warm, humid climates and glasshouses it can establish readily, while in other climates its effectiveness may be limited by temperature extremes and natural enemies.