When we think of ladybirds, we often picture that little red insect with black spots, a symbol of good luck in many cultures. But beyond its charming appearance, the ladybird plays a key role in our gardens. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Among the various species found in Europe, Adalia bipunctata<\/em> holds a special place. At Horpi, we have chosen to focus on breeding this species to make it a leading ally in the fight against aphids. This decision is based on three key observations: it is found throughout Europe, it is particularly voracious, and it feeds on a wide variety of aphid species. This approach is scientific, ecological, and ethical\u2014all of which we detail in this article.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Adalia bipunctata<\/em>, better known as the \u201ctwo-spotted ladybird<\/a>,\u201d is a species native to Belgium and throughout Europe. Easily recognizable by its red elytra adorned with two black spots, it can also exhibit surprising variations, sometimes appearing black with red spots. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Its small size (4 to 5 mm) belies its formidable effectiveness. As a larva<\/a>, it can devour up to 600 aphids throughout its entire life cycle, with peaks of up to 100 aphids per day. The adults, which are more mobile, continue to feed on aphids while ensuring the species\u2019 reproduction. This dual action\u2014both immediate and long-lasting\u2014explains whyAdalia bipunctata<\/em> is considered one of the best natural weapons against aphids. <\/p>\n\n\n\n There are more than 300 species of ladybirds in Europe, but not all of them are equally effective for biological control. In the 1990s, certain exotic species were introduced, such as the Asian ladybird (Harmonia axyridis<\/em>)<\/a>. While they have proven effective, they have also caused ecological imbalances by competing with local species. <\/p>\n\n\n\n By focusing on Adalia bipunctata<\/em>, Horpi is making a responsible choice:<\/p>\n\n\n\n In other words, reintroducing a native ladybird into the garden helps support natural biodiversity rather than altering it.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Horpi grew out of university research and continues to uphold those scientific standards today. We don’t just raise ladybirds; we manage every stage of their life cycle to ensure their effectiveness and sustainability.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Our teams are working on:<\/p>\n\n\n\n This rigorous approach results in greater success during releases: the larvae and adults of Adalia bipunctata<\/em> adapt quickly and effectively reduce aphid populations.<\/p>\n\n\n\n This scientific rigour lies at the very heart of Horpi<\/a>. The company was founded in 1999 through a collaboration between technical advisors from GAWI and researchers from the Gembloux Faculty of Agronomy (now Gembloux Agro-Bio Tech \u2013 ULi\u00e8ge), who had demonstrated the effectiveness of Adalia bipunctata<\/em> against apple aphids. Since then, Horpi has scaled up this breeding programme while continuing the same R&D programme: diet, storage, production capacity, and logistics.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Choosing Adalia bipunctata<\/em> also means demonstrating a commitment. At Horpi, we are convinced that biological control must meet two criteria: effectiveness and respect for nature.<\/p>\n\n\n\n In practical terms, what happens after Adalia bipunctata<\/em> is introduced<\/a> into a garden or greenhouse? From the very first days, the larvae get to work. They target aphid colonies on young shoots and thoroughly eliminate them. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Within a few weeks, gardeners notice a marked improvement:<\/p>\n\n\n\n Beyond this visible result, there is also a broader benefit. By strengthening the presence of a local species, you are helping to build the resilience of your garden\u2019s biodiversity<\/a>. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Adalia bipunctata<\/em> is not just a beautiful native ladybird\u2014it is a powerful, environmentally friendly, and scientifically validated biocontrol tool. Horpi\u2019s choice of this endemic species reflects a deep conviction: the best way to protect our plants is to work with nature, not against it.<\/p>\n\n\n\nA Local and Effective Ladybird<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Why choose an endemic species?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
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Science in the Service of the Garden<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
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An Ethical and Eco-Friendly Approach<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
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How did things turn out in the garden?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
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Conclusion: A Natural, Yet Thoughtful Choice<\/h2>\n\n\n\n