Biobest Introduces New Mite Biocontrol

Jennifer Zurko

Predatory mites such as Amblyseius swirskii, A. cucumeris and A. californicus are widely used to control pests like thrips, whiteflies and spider mites. Sometimes, there are situations—often linked to a lack of food supply—in which these beneficials struggle or even fail to establish, which compromises the success of biological pest control in a range of crops and plant nurseries. In collaboration with a number of researchers, Biobest now has the solution: Nutrimite, a plant-based food supplement (pollen), which gives a solid boost to hungry predatory mite populations.

Results published in scientific journals, as well as in-house tests in the Biobest Greenlab, show spectacular effects: up to three times more predatory mites when Nutrimite is applied on the crop. This innovative strategy is now being extensively tested in collaboration with commercial growers. The goal is to develop specific release schemes, ensuring a more efficient introduction and long-term establishment of predatory mite populations, for a range of target crops. “Less is more” is the motto: Nutrimite will enable you to achieve a larger and healthier predatory mite population delivering better results with fewer releases and limited release rates.

Nutrimite is based on a natural pollen-type, which has been selected on its particular characteristics. It’s relatively resistant to mold and, once applied on the crop, the pollen remains a suitable food for two weeks. It’s highly attractive and nutritionally balanced for predatory mites, while being relatively unsuitable for thrips.

There are limited quantities of Nutrimite available for commercial use. To try out Nutrimite, contact your Biobest rep or
distributor. GT