Aphidius ervi – Large Aphid Parasite for Potato & amp; Glasshouse Aphid Control

Aphidius ervi is a larger parasitic wasp (4–5 mm) specialized in controlling potato aphids, glasshouse aphids, and other large-bodied aphid species. Best used early in the pest cycle, A. ervi helps growers protect crops in greenhouses, nurseries, and outdoor environments. Because of its size, it is highly effective against aphid species that smaller parasitoids such as A. colemani cannot manage, making it an ideal complement in integrated pest management programs. How It Works Adult females seek out larger aphids and lay a single egg inside the host. As the larva develops, the aphid dies and hardens into a leathery brown mummy. Adults emerge by chewing a hole through the mummy and immediately begin searching for new hosts. Beyond parasitism, their presence can reduce feeding and reproduction in surrounding aphids. First visible mummies typically appear within two weeks of release. Targets These Aphid Species Potato Aphid (Macrosiphum euphorbiae) Glasshouse Potato Aphid (Aulacorthum solani) Green Peach Aphid – Tobacco Variant (Myzus persicae var. nicotianae) Pea Aphid (Acyrthosiphon pisum) California Laurel Aphid (Euthoracaphis umbellulariae) Additional large aphid genera: Sitobion, Schizaphis, Rhodobium For complete aphid suppression, pair with A. colemani (smaller aphids) or Aphelinus abdominalis (slower-reproducing species). Ideal Conditions Temperature: 65–77°F optimal; reduced activity above 86°F Humidity: 60–80% RH Sunlight: Avoid direct sun during release Flight Capability: Strong fliers, effective at locating prey Shelf Life: Use within 18 hours of receipt Nutrition: Shipped with a sugar-water feeder for adult survival Application Instructions Greenhouse Release Open bottle in crop area during morning or afternoon. Hold at 45° angle and tap gently to release adults. Recap and repeat for 2–4 days until emergence is complete. Place bottle in canopy for final emergence. Protect from ants. Field Release Release adults near aphid clusters, away from direct sun. Sprinkle mummies into shaded release boxes. Leave boxes for ~7 days for full emergence. Avoid use when temperatures exceed 86°F. Protect from ants. Release Rates Preventative: 1 adult per 20–100 sq. ft. Hotspots: Increase rate up to 5× 250-count bottle treats 5,000–25,000 sq. ft. Frequency: Weekly releases for at least 3 weeks Monitor for brown mummies before pruning Where to Use Greenhouses Nurseries Grow Rooms Hydroponic / Aquaponic Systems Container Plants Interiorscapes Outdoor Crops Orchards & Vineyards Storage Packaged with ice for safe delivery Store in cool, shaded area (do not refrigerate) Use within 18 hours of receipt Quick Tips Release early for best results Look for mummies ~2 weeks post-release Leave pruned leaves with mummies in crop for continued emergence Protect all releases from ants Pair with A. colemani for smaller aphid species Avoid releases during extreme heat (>86°F)