Aphytis Parasitic Wasp

 Scientific name: Aphytis melinus.

Aphytis melinus is a parasitoid wasp species used as a preventative organic biocontrol of armoured scale insects or applied at the first signs of the presence of the pests in agricultural crops. The parasitic wasp is an internal parasite of scales, the wasp relies on the scale as a host for nourishment and shelter.
Aphytis melinus wasps carefully select healthy scale insects to either feed on them or use them as a host to lay an egg. When the egg hatches, the larval wasp consumes the internal organs of the scale insect. Finished with its host, the larva enters the pupal stage, forming a cocoon from which emerges an adult wasp, smaller than the scale it consumed, and goes off in search of more scale insects to sustain itself and its population.
Aphytis melinus is especially used as an eco friendly component in the commercial cultivation of organic citrus sustainably and without pesticide residues.

Use for:

• Armoured scale insects (Diaspididae).
• Especially California red scale (Aonidiella aurantii) and oleander scale (Aspidiotus nerii).
• Also has an effect on San José scale (Comstockaspis perniciosa).
  

Mode of action:

The female wasp deposits one or more eggs under the scale cover of armoured scales. Upon hatching the larva proceeds to feed on the scale. After reaching adulthood, the adult wasp chews a small round hole in the scale cover and leaves. Aphytis melinus also exerts control by predation or feeding on its host.
Visually, successful control results in parasitized scales with a round hole visible on their back after the emergence of the adult wasp.

Product specifications:

Application:

• Divide each cup into 11 release points. Use the lid, the 8 strips of green paper, the cotton wool on the bottom and the cup itself.
• Distribute evenly across the field.
• Release more doses in the areas of the field where the scales are present.
• Release early in the morning or late in the afternoon

Dosage:

The dosage of Aphytis depends on climate, crop and armoured scale density and should always be adjusted to the particular situation. Start introduction as soon as the first armoured scales are detected in the crop. Introduction rates in outdoor crops typically range from 20 000 to 50 000 per ha/release. Releases should be repeated monthly or 4 to 10 times per year.

Environmental conditions:

• Most effective at temperatures around 25°C.
• No development takes place at temperatures below 13°C and effectivity is reduced at temperatures above 38°C. 
• Can be used in combination with predatory beetles.

Storage:

• Apply as soon as possible after receipt. If necessary or in case of adverse weather conditions, the product can be stored for 1 to 2 days.
• Store at temperatures of 15°C to 18°C / 59°F to 64°F.
• Store in the dark.

Caution:

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