Degenerans-System - predatory mite hungry for thrips larvae
How does Degenerans-System control thrips?
- Preventative thrips control – Amblyseius (Iphiseius) degenerans mainly targets young thrips larvae in flowers, preventing populations from building up.
- Highly mobile predatory mite – quickly locates thrips larvae and also feeds on several spider mite species.
- Builds strong populations quickly – when combined with Nutrimite™, populations establish rapidly and remain active in the crop for longer.
- Performs exceptionally well under warm and dry conditions – remains active at low relative humidity and temperatures up to 40°C (104°F), making it ideal for challenging growing conditions.
- Ideal for IPM programmes – combines perfectly with Orius-System, Amblyseius-System and Californicus-System for comprehensive thrips control.
When should you introduce Degenerans-System?
- Start early in the cropping season – introduce Degenerans-System preventatively to allow the population to establish before thrips are detected.
- Release when flowering starts – introduce the predatory mites as soon as sufficient flowers are present or before flowering in combination with Nutrimite™.
- Prevent thrips before they establish – because A. degenerans does not feed on adult thrips, early preventative introductions provide the best results.
- Strengthen the programme when needed – complement Degenerans-System with Amblyseius-System for young thrips larvae and Orius-System for older larvae and adult thrips.
How do you release Degenerans-System?
- Distribute the mites evenly – gently rotate the bottle horizontally before use to ensure a homogeneous distribution.
- Apply to horizontal leaves – sprinkle the contents onto horizontal leaves, using at least 20 predatory mites per release point.
- Use Nutrimite™ – apply 500 g/ha of Nutrimite™ every two weeks to boost population development and maintain established populations.
- Repeat introductions when needed – apply 2 to 3 preventative releases at 2-week intervals for optimum establishment.
Under which conditions should you use Degenerans-System?
- Optimum performance between 20°C and 28°C (68-82°F) – the predatory mites develop best within this temperature range.
- Remains active up to 40°C (104°F) – A. degenerans continues to perform well under hot conditions. Below 7°C (45°F), the mites become inactive.
- Ideal for low humidity conditions – with a critical relative humidity of around 30%, Degenerans-System performs well in much drier conditions than most other predatory mites.
- Suitable for year-round use – because A. degenerans does not enter diapause, it can also be introduced during winter or periods of low light.