DELPHIBUG Delphastus catalinae(predatory beetle) Appearance
Adult: 1.5 mm long, black, females have a brown head
Larvae are greyish white
Climate conditions
Minimum temperature 68F (20C), optimum temperature 72-86F (22-30C).
Storage and treatment
Biological beneficials have a very short life expectancy and therefore need to be introduced into the crop as soon as possible after receipt. Storing them for a period can have a negative impact on their quality and is only possible under the conditions described below. Koppert B.V. is not liable for any loss of quality if the product is stored for longer than recommended and/or under incorrect conditions.
Useable life: 1-2 days in the dark (keep the bottle horizontal).
Storage temperature: 54-57F (12-14C).
Comments
The predatory beetles need sufficient food (whitefly eggs) in order to reproduce.
The beetles can play dead by pulling in their legs and head.
Activity can be confirmed by the presence of yellow excrement on the underside of the leaf.