Aphelinus abdominalis

Controls:

Aphelinus abdominalis is a small parasitic wasp that parasitizes larger aphid species including potato aphids and foxglove aphids. It is best known for its ability to control aphids. Unlike Aphidius wasps, Aphelinus is not hindered by hyperparasitism. Best known for their ability to control Aphids.

Application Rate Recommendations for Aphelinus abdominalis:

• Preventative: 1-2 wasps per square foot depending on pest severity, weekly or as needed
• Moderate Infestation: 2-4 wasps per square foot. Aphelinus will help prevent outbreaks of aphids when used as recommended. It may entirely prevent colonies from developing if used at the beginning of the risk period. It may also be used at higher rates to bring moderate infestations under control but should be used in conjunction with other biocontrols in this situation
• Heavy Infestation: 4-8 wasps per square foot. If aphid numbers are already high it is advisable to use a non-disruptive insecticide to lower the aphid population prior to release

How-To Use Aphelinus abdominalis For Best Results:

• Release the wasps when pest populations are low to moderate.
• The wasps should be released in the early morning or late afternoon when temperatures are cooler and the sun is not shining directly on the plants.
• The wasps should be released near the infested plants and should be distributed evenly throughout the area.
• The plants should be watered before and after release to help the wasps establish themselves
• Remove sticky cards prior to release and leave the bottle in space for continued emergence from mummies.
• Aphelinus should be released as soon as they are received.
• Open the vial in the greenhouse. Tap the vial lightly to distribute the adult parasites and pupae evenly over the affected areas. Finish by placing the open vial horizontally at the base of infected plants for the remaining adults to emerge

Features & Benefits:

• Long-term activity compared to other aphid controllers
• Not being obstructed by hyperparasites, and parasitizing larger and winged aphids
• Aphelinus has a relatively long life and oviposition period of several weeks and can lay 5-10 eggs/day.
• Aphelinus is better able to withstand high temperatures than Aphidius species.
• Suitable crops include vegetables (capsicum, tomatoes, eggplant), ornamentals (gerbera, chrysanthemum, rose), nurseries, and herbs.

Item Numbers:

BW-AD1K - 100ml vial (1K)