The dietary habits of these beetles are primarily carnivorous. A significant portion of their food intake consists of aphids, small, sap-sucking insects that can severely damage plants. These beetles consume substantial quantities of aphids throughout their life cycle, from larva to adulthood. Examples of other prey include scale insects, mealybugs, and mites.
This predation is highly beneficial to agriculture and horticulture. By consuming these pests, these beetles naturally control their populations, reducing the need for chemical pesticides. This natural pest control method minimizes environmental impact and promotes sustainable gardening and farming practices. Historically, their use in biological control dates back centuries, highlighting their enduring value.
