Gall midge larvae that clears large aphid hot spots

What is Aphidoletes-System?

• The gall midge Aphidoletes aphidimyza, whose larvae are biological control agents
• Orange-coloured larvae that can become up to 3 mm
• Larvae consume multiple aphid species
• Adults only feed on nectar

What are the benefits Aphidoletes-System?

• Very good search behaviour that allows them to detect and predate on incipient aphid hot spots at low prey density
• Eggs are only deposited in aphid hot spots
• Contrary to some other gall midge species, larvae of Aphidoletes aphidimyza do not cause damage by forming galls on leaves

How does biological control with Aphidoletes-System work?

• Adult females are actively looking for aphid hot spots
• Adults lay more than 100 eggs per aphid hotspots
• The larvae start sucking their prey immediately after hatching
• Up to 100 aphids are eaten during the larval stage
• In case of large aphid hot spots, more aphids are killed than they need to feed themselves (overkill)

In which crops can you introduce Aphidoletes-System?

• Ornamental crops such as rose and gerbera
• Vegetable crops such as tomato and cucumber
• Soft fruit such as strawberry and raspberry
• Tree nursery

Want to know more? Please contact your Biobest advisor for tailored advice.

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