Planning ahead for Aphid control
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Aphiscout, available from Lyme Bay Solutions Ltd, is a mixed-species aphid biocontrol product containing five parasitic wasp species, designed for early, preventive, and broad‑spectrum aphid management in protected crops.
Aphiscout — Summary for Growers
What Is Aphiscout
- A Koppert biological aphid control product, available from Lyme Bay solutions Ltd.
- Contains five parasitic wasp species:
- Aphidius colemani (20%)
- Aphidius ervi (15%)
- Aphelinus abdominalis (15%)
- Praon volucre (40%)
- Ephedrus cerasicola (10%)
· Supplied as 250 mummies in a 90 ml cardboard cylinder with shaker lid.
What AphiScout Controls
- Effective against most commonly occurring aphids in protected crops.
- Particularly useful when the aphid species is unknown, because each parasitoid targets different aphid groups.
How It Works (Mode of Action)
- Adult parasitoids emerge from mummies after release.
- Females lay eggs inside aphids → aphids turn into leathery mummies.
- New adults emerge through a hole in the mummy.
- First mummies appear approx’ 2 weeks after introduction.
When & How to Use
Application
- Hang the cylinder horizontally using the peel‑off label.
- Rotate lid to align holes for controlled release.
Dosage
- 0.75–1.5 parasitoids per m², equivalent to 1 unit per 250–350 m².
- Start preventively, soon after planting.
- Repeat releases if aphids persist.
- If aphid species becomes known, switching to a single‑species product (Aphilin, Aphipar, Aphipar‑M, Ervipar) may be more effective.
Environmental Conditions
- Effective between 16–30°C (61–86°F).
- Compatible with other biocontrols such as Aphidend.
Storage & Handling
- Use as soon as possible after arrival.
- If needed, store for 1–2 days only.
Key Advantages
- Broad-spectrum aphid control in one product.
- Ideal for early detection and intervention.
- Helps identify which parasitoid species are most effective based on mummy appearance.
- Supports integrated pest management (IPM) strategies with minimal chemical impact.