Aphytis melinus - Scale Control

LIVE DELIVERY GUARANTEE Controls Aonidiella aurantii. TARGET PESTS California Red Scale, Ivy Scale, Oleander Scale, San Jose Scale, Walnut Scale, Dictyospermum Scale, & more.   DESCRIPTION Scientific Name: Aphytis melinus APHYTIS are a specialist parasitoid known for its role as a natural predator of certain scale insects, particularly the red scale (Aonidiella aurantii). Adults have a slender, light-yellow to yellowish-brown body, measuring about 1mm in length, with relatively long antennae, and transparent wings with distinctive veins. APHYTIS are perfect for managing scale insect populations in areas with warm temperatures and high humidity, common in greenhouse environments. Females lay up to 100 eggs during their lifespan by depositing them under the waxy covering of scale insects. After incubating for about 4-7 days, the eggs hatch into larvae that actively feed on the host while developing over the next 10-14 days. Once the larvae is fully developed, it will pupate within the remains of the scale insect for 7-10 days. Adults emerge from the pupal case ready to seek out new hosts to continue the cycle.   TEMPERATURE 50-95°F   INTRODUCTION RATES 1 insect per sq. ft., bi-weekly, when scale is active. It's important to note that these release rates serve as general guidelines and may vary based on the specific pest species, the crop or plant being treated, and level of infestation. Proper monitoring of the infestation and the subsequent effectiveness of the released beneficial insect population is crucial for determining the success of the biological control strategy. STORAGE Introduce immediately. Do not store. PRO TIPS: Proper identification of the pest species is important. Monitoring the crop closely and introducing beneficial insects early will help in control pest populations. Pesticides, even wetting agents, and spreader-stickers may adversely affect beneficial insects' survival. Broad spectrum and systemic insecticides are toxic.   ITEM NUMBERS APHYTIS-5K: Minimum of 5,000 adults per tray.  APHYTIS-10K: Minimum of 10,000 adults per tray.