Macrolophus–System – generalist whitefly predator widely deployed in tomatoes
How does Macrolophus-System control pests?
- Versatile predatory bug for preventative pest control – Macrolophus pygmaeus provides reliable control of greenhouse whitefly, tobacco whitefly and South American tomato moth (Tuta absoluta). It also feeds on spider mites, aphids, leafminers and thrips.
- Active hunter – both adults and nymphs actively search for prey. A single adult can consume up to 50 whitefly eggs per day, helping to reduce pest populations quickly.
- Strong population establishment – with alternative food sources such as Nutrimac™ Plus and Artemac™, populations continue to develop even when prey levels are low.
- Ideal for crops with glandular leaf hairs – Macrolophus-System is particularly well suited for tomatoes, peppers and eggplants.
- Perfect for IPM programmes – combine Macrolophus-System with Encarsia-System for whitefly control or with Phytoseiulus-System for enhanced spider mite control.
When should you introduce Macrolophus-System?
- Start early in the crop – because population development is relatively slow, Macrolophus-System should be introduced 4 to 8 weeks after planting.
- Work preventatively – make 2 to 4 releases at 1 to 2 week intervals to prevent pest populations from building up.
- Focus on hotspots – use Macrolophus-N-System (nymphs) in spider mite hotspots to support Phytoseiulus-System.
- Support population growth – provide alternative food sources to promote rapid establishment and development of the population.
How do you release Macrolophus-System?
- Distribute the predatory bugs evenly – release adults evenly throughout the crop rows or apply nymphs onto horizontal leaves or in Bio-Boxes.
- Ensure uniform distribution – spread the release points evenly across the crop for rapid establishment.
- Avoid losses – prevent insects from falling onto the ground to maximise their establishment in the crop.
- Boost the population – use Nutrimac™ Plus and Artemac™ to improve establishment, dispersal and long-term population growth.
Under which conditions should you use Macrolophus-System?
- Optimum performance at 20°C (68°F) – establishment is best at 20°C (68°F). Development slows at lower temperatures, stops below 10°C (50°F) and temperatures above 40°C (104°F) are lethal to eggs and nymphs.
- Be patient – it generally takes 4 to 8 weeks before the population becomes well established.
- Monitor performance – look for punctured whitefly eggs, moulted skins, young nymphs and signs of predation.
- Ideal for integrated pest management – thanks to its broad prey range and preventative action, Macrolophus-System is a key component of any effective IPM strategy.
Occasional crop damage warning
Macrolophus can occassionally cause poor fruit set, flower drop, irregularly formed flowers, fruit or trusses and feeding spots on fruit.
Be cautious when the following conditions occur:
- Large population - 100+ Macrolophus on entire plant or 50+ in plant head
- No prey available
- Reduced fruit set - caused by unfavourable climatic conditions or strong vegetative growth
- Sensitive crops and varieties - such as cherry and small-truss tomato types