Macrolophus pygmaeus: voracious mirid bug that deals with several pests

What is Macrolophus pygmaeus?

• Bright green mirid bug
• Efficient beneficial against various pests
• Preventative protection of crops against unexpected infestations

What are the benefits of Macrolophus pygmaeus?

• Macrolophus pygmaeus eats the eggs and larvae of greenhouse and tobacco whitefly (preferably in combination with parasitic wasps against whitefly)
• The mirid bug also eats the eggs of the South American leaf miner (Tuta absoluta)
• In addition, it feeds on spider mites, moth eggs and aphids
• Young Macrolophus nymphs cannot fly and effectively control red spider mite infestations 
• A strong mirid bug population provides preventative protection for crops 

How does it control pests?

• Every day, Macrolophus pygmaeus consumes about 50 whitefly larvae and eggs
• By using alternative food sources Nutrimac™ and Artemac™, the population of Macrolophus pygmaeus will grow, even in absence of prey

In which crops is Macrolophus pygmaeus effective?

• In vegetable crops, especially in tomato and eggplant crops

Warning
Macrolophus pygmaeus can occasionally cause crop damage such as poor fruit set, flower drop, irregularly formed flowers, fruit or trusses and feeding spots on fruit. Please be cautious when the following conditions occur:

• The Macrolophus pygmaeus population is too large, i.e. 100 individuals on the entire plant or 50 individuals in the head of the plant
• There is no prey available
• There is reduced fruit set caused by unfavourable climatic conditions or strong vegetative growth
• In sensitive crops and varieties, e.g. cherry tomatoes and small-truss tomato types

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

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