A Family of Friendly Insects in Florida
Members of the Coccinellidae family, commonly known as ladybugs, are not technically bugs. Entomologists call these insects by the more accurate term—ladybird beetles. There are about 5,000 species of ladybird beetles worldwide, most beneficial to mankind. Although the ladybug is often pictured as red with black spots, these insects come in various colors and patterns.
The common ladybug is a friend to gardeners and landscapers. When aphids and scale insects threaten rose bushes and garden vegetables, the ladybug fights back with vigor. One ladybug may eat 5,000 aphids in its lifetime. The female ladybug lays her eggs on plants that aphids, mealybugs, and scales frequently. As soon as the eggs hatch, the larvae start feeding. Consider the ladybug an ally in natural pest control. These effective exterminators are even considerate enough to replace themselves regularly. One female ladybug may lay 1,000 eggs in her lifetime. The ladybird beetle can also protect itself by secreting a sticky, smelly substance when threatened, making itself distasteful to would-be predators.
When Professional Pest Control May Help
Ladybugs hibernate when cold weather moves in. Occasionally a homeowner may find ladybird beetles hibernating indoors. While they are harmless insects, the homeowner may want to relocate them to a more appropriate place.
Only two members of the Coccinellidae family are destructive pests. The Mexican bean and squash beetle feed on popular garden crops instead of aphids and scales. When these insect pests threaten gardens in Orlando, exterminator pest control services can help. Professionals will use the latest methods to eliminate problems with minimal harm to the overall environment. ABC Pest Control in Orlando knows the area and can combat the insect pests that threaten edible garden plants and ornamentals.
Sometimes even the voracious appetite of the beneficial ladybug cannot keep up with a persistent pest problem. If additional help is needed, be sure to call on the ABC experts. We have years of experience and respect for the natural environment.