Orius insidiosus for thrips control
Orius insidiosus is a small but highly effective predatory bug for biological pest control of thrips. This beneficial insect has been widely utilized in integrated pest management (IPM) strategies in various agricultural and horticultural crops worldwide. Both adults and nymphs are voracious predators, capable of piercing and feeding on the soft bodies of their prey.
The predatory bug Orius insidiosus is used for the control of the following pests:
How to use Orius insidiosus
The predatory bug Orius insidiosus is available in bottles (Thripor-I)
- Shake bottle gently before use
- Spread material on clean rock wool slabs, leaves and/or in application boxes (Dibox)
- Apply in groups of at least 50 insects in order to establish a population and encourage mating
- Make sure the material remains undisturbed at the introduction site for a few hours after application
The dosage of Thripor-I depends on climate, crop and thrips density and should always be adjusted to the situation. Start introduction as soon as the first thrips are detected in the crop. Introduction rates typically range from 0.5-10 per m2/release. Releases should be repeated once or twice. Consult a Koppert advisor or a recognized distributor of Koppert products for advice on the best strategy for your situation.
Orius insidiosus products
Expand all items
Best conditions for use of Orius insidiosus
Optimal temperatures for Thripor-I are above 20°C (68°F), lower temperatures slow down the development of Orius insidiosus significantly.
Feeding behaviour of Orius insidiosus
Orius insidiosus is a generalist predator but has a preference for thrips. In addition, it feeds on a variety of small arthropods such as whiteflies, aphids, small caterpillars, and mites. It also feeds on pollen. The prey is pierced with the mouthparts and the body contents are consumed. All stages of thrips are preyed on. Adult females can eat about 20 Western flower thrips (Frankliniella occidentalis) per day.
Life cycle of Orius insidiosus
Growers can recognize the different life stages of the predatory bug Orius insidiosus when using this biocontrol agent by observing their unique characteristics at each stage:
-
Egg stage: Orius insidiosus eggs are small, oval-shaped, and usually laid singly within plant tissues such as leaves, stems, or flowers. They are typically white or translucent and may be difficult to see without close inspection.
-
Nymphal stage: Orius insidiosus nymphs are the primary predatory stage. They resemble smaller versions of the adults but lack fully developed wings. Nymphs are yellow initially, turning darker (orange to brown) as they mature. They have piercing-sucking mouthparts with which they feed on thrips and other small insects.
-
Adult stage: Adult Orius insidiosus are small, elongated insects, about 2-3 millimeters in length. They have a black or dark brown body with white markings on their wings. The wings lie flat over their backs when at rest, displaying a characteristic black and white pattern. Adults are active predators, feeding on thrips. They also consume pollen and plant juices, which can supplement their diet when prey is scarce. Adult bugs are about 2.5 mm long.