Micromus-System - optimise aphid control with robust new team player
How does Micromus-System control aphids?
- Versatile aphid predator – both the larvae and adults of Micromus angulatus feed on all major aphid species. They can also prey on mealybugs as a secondary food source.
- Highly voracious – a single larva consumes an average of 130 aphids during its development, while an adult can eat up to 100 aphids per day.
- Excellent searching ability – females lay their eggs low in the crop. The larvae then actively crawl upwards through the canopy to locate aphid colonies quickly.
- Performs well under challenging conditions – Micromus-System remains active at temperatures as low as 10°C (50°F) and continues to perform well even when aphid populations are low.
- Perfect for IPM programmes – combine Micromus-System with parasitoids, hoverflies, Aphidoletes-System or Chrysopa-(E)-System for even more effective biological aphid control.
When should you introduce Micromus-System?
- Start at the first signs of aphids – introduce Micromus-System as soon as aphids are detected.
- Use throughout the crop or in hotspots – the product can be applied preventatively across the entire crop or locally in infested areas.
- Repeat when needed – for low to moderate infestations, make 2 to 3 releases at weekly intervals.
- Release in the evening – because adults are nocturnal, late afternoon or early evening releases promote better establishment.
How do you release Micromus-System?
- Distribute the adults evenly – open the cup at the end of the row and walk slowly through the crop to ensure even dispersal.
- Use the honeycomb paper as well – place the pieces of honeycomb paper throughout the crop to release additional individuals.
- Leave the packaging in the crop – the fully biodegradable cup can remain in the crop until the end of the growing cycle.
- Combine with other beneficials – combining Micromus-System with other biological control agents strengthens aphid control.
Under which conditions should you use Micromus-System?
- Optimum performance between 15°C and 26°C (59°F to 79°F) – development is possible from 10°C (50°F) onwards, while activity decreases above 35°C (95°F).
- Monitor performance – look for declining aphid populations, shrivelled aphids and larvae feeding within aphid colonies.
- Active day and night – larvae are easy to observe during the day, while adults are mainly active at night.
- Ideal for integrated pest management – thanks to its high predation capacity, excellent searching behaviour and strong performance at lower temperatures, Micromus-System is a valuable component of any IPM strategy against aphids.