Tag: Common predatory insect

• Question of the Week – Aphid Mummies

  

  What is on the underside of this strawberry leaf? These round, tan objects are aphid mummies, the remains of aphids that have been parasitized and killed by tiny wasps. Due in part to parasitoid wasps, insecticide treatments are rarely needed for managing aphids in strawberries. These wasps prey upon aphids by inserting an egg into…

  Justin Ballew

  March 26, 2026

  Question of the Week

  aphids, biocontrol of aphids, biological management of aphids, Common predatory insect, parasitoid of aphids, Question of the Week, Strawberries

• Question of the Week – Lady Beetle Larva

  

  What is this wild-looking critter? This is a lady beetle larva. While it might look strange and undesirable, it’s actually a good thing to find in the field. These larvae, like the adults, have quite an appetite and can help control certain pest populations, especially aphids. Encouraging beneficial insects by avoiding broad-spectrum insecticide applications is…

  Justin Ballew

  March 19, 2026

  Question of the Week

  Common predatory insect, immature, lady beetle, lady beetle larva, larva, Question of the Week, Strawberries