COLEOBUG – Predatory Beetle for Aphid Control
Coleobug contains Coleomegilla maculata, a beneficial predatory beetle used primarily for biological control of aphids, with additional feeding activity on mealybugs and other small soft-bodied pests.
Comes in a 900ml tube containing 1000 beetles in a buckwheat carrier
*THIS ITEM CARRIES A LEAD TIME OF 14 BUSINESS DAYS*
Both the larvae and adults are active predators that search through the plant canopy for prey. Coleobug is especially useful when aphids are already visible in the crop, making it a strong curative option for active aphid pressure.
Target Pests
Primary target:
- Aphids, including many common aphid species
Secondary/opportunistic feeding may include:
- Mealybugs
- Thrips
- Mites
- Scale crawlers
- Insect eggs
- Small soft-bodied larvae
While Coleomegilla maculata is a generalist predator, Coleobug is best positioned as an aphid-focused biological control. Its strongest use is for active aphid pressure, while feeding on other pests may occur when they are present.
How Coleobug Works
Coleobug larvae and adults feed directly on aphids and other suitable soft-bodied pests. After release, they move through the crop searching for prey using visual and chemical cues.
For best results, release Coleobug where pest activity is present so the predators can begin feeding quickly. It can be used on its own for localized aphid pressure or as part of a broader biological control program alongside other compatible beneficial insects.
Application Instructions
Upon arrival, gently rotate the container horizontally to mix the larvae with the carrier material.
Open the container and apply small amounts of material directly into the crop where pests are active. Focus on areas with visible aphids, new growth, stems, undersides of leaves, or other affected areas.
Apply during cooler parts of the day when possible. Avoid releasing in direct hot sun or onto wet foliage.
What to Expect Upon Arrival
Coleobug is shipped in carrier material to protect the larvae during transport. You may notice limited movement at first, as the larvae often hide within the carrier material during shipping. This is normal.
This is a live biological product and should be released as soon as possible after arrival. If immediate release is not possible, store briefly in a cool, dark location around 14°C and use within 1–2 days of receipt. Do not refrigerate.
Important Notes
Coleobug has an extended lead time compared to our regular weekly biologicals. Please allow approximately 10–14 business days for ordering and arrival.
We import biological controls fresh to help ensure customers receive active, viable beneficial insects. Because these are living products with limited shelf life, we do not keep most biologicals stocked in-house.
Please inspect your package and product right away upon arrival, before release. If you have any concerns about condition or viability, contact us before releasing at admin@optimizeorganics.ca with your order number and clear photos of the package and product.
Biological pest control is rarely a one-and-done release. Most active pest situations require sequential releases to build and maintain predator populations. For heavier aphid pressure, Coleobug may be best used as part of a broader control program with other compatible beneficials.
Avoid spraying pesticides, oils, or soaps immediately before or after release unless compatibility has been confirmed, as residues may harm beneficial insects.
