Minusa Parasitic Wasp

Scientific name: Dacnusa sibirica.

Dacnusa sibirica, a parasitoid wasp, is the natural enemy of particular larvae of the Agromyzidae family, called leaf miner flies for the feeding habits of their larvae that live and feed within the tissues of a plants leaves.
Dacnusa sibirica parasitic wasps are used in integrated pest management of leafminers in field and greenhouse crops like tomatoes, peas, cucumbers and gerberas, particularly in cooler conditions when other parasitic wasp species may be less effective.

Use for:

• Biological control of leaf miners (Lyriomyza spp.).
• Effective at low leaf miner densities.
• Also effective at low temperatures.
• Can be used in outdoor or indoor plantations.
• Can be combined with Diglyphus isaea parasitic wasps.

Mode of action:

The adult female parasitic wasps of Dacnusa sibirica preferably lay their eggs inside first and second instars of the leaf miner larva. The parasitic wasps develop inside the leaf miner pupa. The adult wasp will emerge from the pupa.
Visually, it is not possible to see on the outside if the leaf miner larvae or pupae are parasitized, leaf conditions will improve with successful control.

Product specifications:

Application:

Release parasitic wasps between the leaves of the crop in the morning or in the evening.

Dosage:

The dosage of Minusa depends on climate, crop and leaf miner density and should always be adjusted to the particular situation. Start introduction as soon as the first mines are visible in the crop. Introduction rates typically range from 0.25 to 0.5 wasps per m²/release. Releases should be repeated at least 3 times at weekly intervals or until control is achieved. 

Environmental conditions:

• Minusa is more effective than Diglyphus isaea wasps at lower temperatures (<20°C / 68°F). When temperatures rise Minusa can be supported by Diglyphus isaea wasps.
  
• At higher temperatures (>25°C / 77°F) and/ or higher infestation rates it might be better to use Diglyphus isaea.
  

Storage:

• Apply as soon as possible after receipt. If necessary, the product can be stored for 1 to 2 days.
• Store at temperatures of 8°C to 10°C / 47°F to 50°F.
• Store in the dark.
• Keep the bottle standing.

Caution:

• Pesticides can have direct or indirect effects on biological solutions.
• Only use products that are permitted in your country or state and crop.