Luke (Ladybeetle)

Luke is a type of ladybeetle (Chilocorus circumdatus) that feeds on a range of hard (armoured) scale. Adults are about 5mm long and bright orange but without any spots. Juveniles look like small caterpillars and are pale cream coloured with pronounced dark spines over their body. Both adults and juveniles feed on hard scale.

Ladybeetles are available directly from Bugs for Bugs. Click on the link to visit their website.

Target pests
Hard (armoured) scale insects including:

• Red scale (Aonidiella aurantii) 
• Oriental scale (Aonidiella orientalis)
• Oleander scale (Aspidiotus nerii)
• White louse scale, Citrus snow scale (Unaspis citri)

Adult Luke will also feed on pollen and nectar if scale numbers are low. Having a mix of flowering plants throughout the garden is another way to encourage Luke to remain actively working in your garden.