Green Lacewing
Mallada signata
Overview
Lacewings are important generalist predators in natural and agricultural ecosystems. There are many species of green lacewings, but Mallada signata and the Brown Lacewing (Micromus tasmaniae) are the most common in Australia.
Green Lacewing adults are about 15 mm long, bright green, with lace-like wings and long antennae. Their larvae are pale brown and reach a size of about 8 mm. Green Lacewing larvae have a peculiar survival mechanism against their predators - they camouflage themselves by attaching the remains of their prey and other debris to their bodies.
Adult lacewings sustain themselves on pollen, nectar, and honeydew. They can survive for long periods and overwinter quite well.
Pests Green Lacewing can help you control
You can use Green Lacewings to control aphids and a range of other pests, including thrips, mites, whiteflies, lacebugs, moth eggs, mealybugs, and scale insects.
How Green Lacewing controls pests among crops
Green Lacewings are generalist predators in orchards, outdoor nurseries, and home gardens. They are sometimes found in greenhouse horticulture crops, but rarely establish.
Studies show they can be useful for treating aphid hotspots, especially for large aphids like the Foxglove/Potato Aphid. Parasitic wasps like Aphidius colemani, Aphidius ervi, and Aphelinus abdominalis generally provide better control of aphids in greenhouse crops in the long term and should be used in conjunction with lacewings and ladybirds.
Certain pesticides and fungicides affect lacewings. Contact your local Biological Services consultant for specific advice.
How you can order Green Lacewing
You can order Green Lacewing from Biological Services as adults or pupae in packs of 200.
Get tailored advice for your commercial crop
To speak with one of our qualified consultants about your current commercial crop challenge or to learn about the benefits of the IPM maintenance and monitoring services we provide, contact us.
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