Feeling Ladybugged?

A new indoor trap invented by ARS scientists uses a blacklight to harmlessly capture beneficial but sometimes annoying ladybugs. From spring to early fall, the Asian multicolored lady beetle, Harmonia axyridis, helps farmers by gobbling pests such as aphids, greenbugs, and other insects that damage crops. But in autumn, the beetles seek refuge. Sometimes large numbers pick a home or other building for their "winter camp." Homeowners are understandably annoyed. The insects are harmless, but if disturbed or squashed, they can emit a foul odor and secrete a yellow substance that stains surfaces and fabrics. The new trap uses no insecticide and can be assembled in minutes. Lady beetles and other flying insects attracted by the blacklight are quickly caught in a bag with a nonstick surface. Later, they can be released outdoors. In indoor tests, the trap captured nearly 100 percent of the ladybugs. ARS is evaluating applications from companies interested in licensing the technology.