Delphastus catalinae - Whitefly Control

$28.00

SKU: 352
TARGET PESTS

Scientific Name: Delphastus catalinae

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

SHIPPED FRESH & QUALITY GUARANTEED

Great choice for an active infestation due to its high consumption rate. Combine with Encarsia formosa for total control.

Delphastus, also known as the whitefly predator beetle, is a highly effective predator targeting whiteflies and other small arthropods. With a dome-shaped body, adults measure about 1.5-2 mm in length, featuring brown or black wing covers with a shiny metallic appearance. Females lay eggs near whitefly colonies, which hatch into larvae within days, voraciously feeding on whitefly eggs, nymphs, and pupae. After pupation, they emerge as hungry adults, continuing their predatory behavior. Agile and quick, Delphastus beetles excel in high whitefly population situations and can consume up to 10,000 whitefly eggs each. Unlike some predators, they do not hibernate during fall and winter, allowing year-round utilization both indoors and outdoors. They complement other predators like Encarsia formosa and Eretmocerus eremicus for light to moderate infestations, making them a valuable asset in biological pest control. Females can lay several hundred eggs over a 2-month lifespan.

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%+

It's important to note that these introduction rates serve as general guidelines and can differ depending on the specific pest species, the plant being treated, and level of infestation. Proper monitoring of the infestation and the released beneficial insect population is crucial for determining the success of the biological control strategy.
APPLICATION
Gently disperse insects onto infested plants. Leave open container in place for 24 hours to allow any remaining insects to be released.
PRO TIPS

  • 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.
  • Pesticides, even-wetting agents, and spreader-stickers may adversely affect beneficial insect survival. Broad spectrum and systemic insecticides are toxic.

  • 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

Mummies that have not begun to emerge can be stored at 45-50°F until hatching begins. Store out of direct sunlight. Hatching can take up to 5 days. Introduce adults immediately.


DISCLAIMER / SHIPPING POLICY

STORE POLICIES

Thank you for shopping with us! Before placing your order, please review our Shipping Policy and Refund and Return Policy. By completing your purchase, you agree to these terms.

We do not provide recommendations on pesticide use. Products are sold for home use only, not commercial use.

QUALITY GUARANTEE

If your beneficial insects or other perishable products are not viable when delivered, email info@naturesgoodguys.sbs within 48 hours of delivery with your order number and a description of the problem. Photos may be requested. Approved replacements ship on Wednesdays and Thursdays.

  • Open your package right away and check for storage instructions. Some products need refrigeration, and improper storage voids the guarantee.
  • Ice packs help moderate temperature in transit and are not expected to arrive frozen.
  • Some insects need time at room temperature before they become active, and many are hard to see without magnification.

SHIPPING

  • Processing: 1 to 3 business days. Orders placed by 12:00 pm Pacific may process the same day, but this is not guaranteed.
  • Overnight: ships Monday to Thursday, and Friday for addresses with Saturday delivery, excluding holidays.
  • Second Day: ships Monday to Wednesday, and Thursday for addresses with Saturday delivery.
  • USPS: ships Monday to Friday.
  • We do not ship to PO boxes.

Some products are harvested on set days, and we may hold shipments during extreme weather to protect product quality. We will contact you if your order is delayed significantly.

CHANGES AND CANCELLATIONS

Please contact us within 30 minutes of placing your order to change or cancel it.

RETURNS AND REPLACEMENTS

Beneficial insects and other perishable products cannot be returned; they are covered by the Quality Guarantee above. Unopened garden supplies and tools can be returned within 30 days. Full details are in our Refund and Return Policy.

Replacements are not available for an incorrect shipping address, storage or use instructions not followed, or packages left uncollected after delivery.