Rhyzobug

Rhyzobug (Rhyzobius lophanthae) — Armored Scale Predator Adults

Rhyzobug contains adult beetles of Rhyzobius lophanthae, a proven biological control agent for armored scale insects. These adults are strong crawlers that actively search plant surfaces for scale insects, making them ideal for targeted releases in scale-prone crops and landscapes. Use Rhyzobug for control of armored scale insects in any growing environment. Rhyzobug is chemical-free and safe for use in any growing environment including greenhouses, nurseries, orchards, flower beds, interiorscapes, outdoor landscapes, and ornamental plantings.

Special Lead Time: Deadline is Friday by 12pm local time, delivery date is Thursday, 2 weeks from order date.

Use For

Rhyzobug adults feed on all stages of armored scale insects, including:

California red scale (Aonidiella aurantii)

White peach scale (Pseudaulacaspis pentagona)

Oleander scale (Aspidiotus nerii)

Other armored scale species (Diaspididae)

Rhyzobug adults actively search bark, stems, leaves, and protected plant surfaces where armored scale insects settle, making them especially effective in woody plants and perennial crops.

How It Works

Mode of Action: Adults feed directly on armored scale insects by lifting and consuming them

Behavior: Adults crawl across plant surfaces to locate and feed on scale colonies

Visual Effect: Armored scale insects are removed as adults feed through infested areas

Feeding Rates

Adults feed on multiple armored scale insects per day, including settled stages

Adults are most active in warm conditions (77–82°F) and continue feeding for several weeks

Best Working Conditions

Temperature: Minimum 61°F; optimal range 77–82°F

Humidity: Not critical; Rhyzobug performs well under a wide range of humidity conditions

Compatibility Guidance:

Allow residues from oils or soaps to dry before application

Essential oils (e.g. neem) may be used as knockdown before release

Physical removal of scale (scraping or wiping) supports faster suppression

For compatibility with chemical sprays, check our compatibility charts here: Natural Enemies - Chemical Compatibility and here: Beneficial Insect & Pesticide Compatibility Table

Product Specifications

Pack Size: 500 adults

Presentation: Cardboard bottle

Carrier: None

Appearance: Adults are small, dark brown to black beetles with a rounded body and strong legs

What to Expect

Rhyzobug adults begin searching and feeding shortly after release

Armored scale populations are reduced as adults feed across infested plant surfaces

Reapply based on scouting observations to maintain control

Recommended IPM Pairings:

Isarid® Mycoinsecticide – Adds a fungal mode of action against scale crawlers while remaining compatible with beneficials.

Dune™ – Improves plant resilience against sucking pests, reducing overall stress and supporting long-term IPM stability.

Horiver Sticky Traps – Useful for monitoring crawler emergence and other co-occurring pests; supports scouting programs.

Horticultural Oil Knockdown – For pre-release reduction of heavy scale pressure; apply beneficials only after residues have dried.