Ladybugs (Coccinellidae family) are familiar insects known for their beneficial role in gardens and agriculture. These small beetles are praised for their natural pest control abilities, but their exact dietary needs are frequently misunderstood. While associated with sweet substances, their survival depends on a protein-rich diet. This article clarifies their nutritional requirements and addresses whether they seek out honey.
The Primary Diet of Ladybugs
The foundation of a ladybug’s diet is overwhelmingly predatory, positioning them as natural carnivores. Their primary food source consists of soft-bodied insects and mites, most notably aphids. Both the adult beetles and their larvae are highly effective hunters.
The larval stage is particularly voracious, consuming hundreds of aphids during development. Adult ladybugs continue this predatory lifestyle, consuming between 10 and 50 aphids daily to support energy and reproduction. This high-protein intake is essential for egg production. Ladybugs also prey on other pests, including scale insects, mealybugs, thrips, and spider mites, demonstrating their role as generalist insectivores when primary prey is unavailable.
Sugars, Honeydew, and the Honey Question
Ladybugs do not naturally seek out or consume honey, which is a product created by bees. However, they are strongly attracted to and consume a similar sugary substance called honeydew. Honeydew is the sticky, sweet excretion left behind by sap-sucking insects like aphids, scales, and whiteflies.
Ladybugs consume this substance for quick energy and hydration, especially when insect prey is scarce. This sugary liquid serves as a survival food source, supplementing their diet but not sustaining them long-term for reproduction. Honeydew is structurally distinct from table honey, which is primarily a nectar derivative. Its consumption is a natural behavior that often leads the ladybug directly to new aphid colonies.
Providing Supplemental Food Sources
When natural prey populations crash, or for ladybugs kept in controlled environments, supplemental feeding becomes necessary. Because a lack of protein inhibits reproduction, these additions serve as a temporary energy source to keep the beetles alive until prey returns. A simple sugar-water solution can be offered, typically mixed at a ratio of one part sugar to four parts water.
This solution provides the quick carbohydrate boost ladybugs seek from honeydew or flower nectar. Specialized commercial diets, often containing a mixture of proteins and carbohydrates such as pollen substitutes, are also available for mass rearing. These manufactured foods ensure the beetles receive the necessary nutrients when live insects are not available.