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Today three species of Orius ssp. are used in European nurseries to control thrips |
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Orius ssp.
Orius is a very important control agent together with the predatory mite Amblyseius cucumeris , especially for control of Frankliniella-thrips ( Frankliniella occidentalis ). Orius majusculus is mainly used in vegetables, but also works in ornamentals, O. insidiosus is mainly used in ornamentals and sweet pepper. Orius laevigatus is used in vegetables and ornamentals, mainly in spring and autumn, as it is not very dependent on light. The Orius-species are predators in all active stages. As well as the adults, the larvae and nymphs are hunting and eating thrips. The eggs are deposited in the soft plant tissue and along the ribs, not easy to find. Orius-species will develop from eggs till adult in 2-3 weeks, at 20-25 degrees. Orius-species all prefer thrips in their diet, but will also eat aphids, spidermites and eggs and butterflies etc. Pollen is a good alternative food, e.g. in sweet pepper. Orius majusculus will need 14-16 hours daylength to be able to reproduce. O. laevigatus 10-11 hours, while O.insidiosus not seems to be very dependant of daylength.
How to use
Preventive use in ornamentals, where the problem is Frankliniella:. Use 0,5 Orius/m2 every fortnight. Use A. cucumeris as well. Curative use 1-2/m2 and up to 10/m2 in "hot spots". Orius should be released 1-3 times, and at least until thrips are controlled and Orius is easy found in the culture.Orius should be released in small hips of 15-20 Orius together(15-20 ml.) In cucumber the buckwheat with the Orius are sprinkled on the leaves, in ornamentals the material can be deposited on the potsoil. Take care the material is not getting too wet when watering.
The product
Orius are shipped in bottles with 250 or 500 individuals in buckwheat. The Orius-species can be stored a few days before use.