Description
Aphidoline is a highly efficient biological control agent containing the predatory midge Aphidoletes aphidimyza. This species is known for its ability to suppress heavy aphid infestations quickly and effectively. Unlike many other biological solutions that work best preventively, Aphidoline is ideal for curative application, making it a critical tool for growers who require rapid intervention against established aphid colonies.
The adult midge lays its eggs directly in or near aphid clusters. Once hatched, the predatory larvae seek out and paralyze aphids before consuming them. This unique predation behavior, combined with high mobility and efficient host-location ability, allows Aphidoline to dramatically reduce aphid populations in a matter of days.
Proven Predator of Over 60 Aphid Species
Fast Larval Development and Aggressive Feeding
Aphidoline is effective against more than 60 aphid species commonly found in greenhouse and protected crops. Once the adult midges identify aphid colonies, they lay eggs among them. Larvae hatch within two days at moderate temperatures (23°C / 73°F) and begin feeding immediately.
Larval predation involves:
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Biting aphid legs to inject a paralyzing toxin
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Immobilizing the host aphid
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Feeding externally by sucking out body contents
Each larva can kill over 35 aphids during its development. Interestingly, in dense colonies, Aphidoline larvae kill more aphids than they consume, a behavior that significantly increases their effectiveness in managing outbreaks.
Lifecycle and Temperature Tolerance
Adaptable to a Wide Range of Growing Environments
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Egg to larva: Hatching occurs within 2 days at 23°C
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Larval stage: Lasts 3–9 days depending on temperature
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Optimum range: 20–27°C (68–81°F)
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Humidity tolerance: Operates efficiently between 20–80% relative humidity
Note: Aphidoline enters diapause in low-light conditions (typical from mid-October to mid-March), so it is best applied outside these months unless supplemental lighting is used.
Target Use
Designed to Combat
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Dense aphid colonies in greenhouse crops
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Early to mid-stage infestations
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Problem areas where other biocontrol agents may act too slowly
Its high kill rate and mobility make Aphidoline a preferred solution for fast, visible results and crop recovery in high-pressure aphid outbreaks.
Delivery Systems
Multiple Formats for Flexible Crop Integration
Aphidoline is available in two delivery options:
Blister Packs
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Supplied in sets of four
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Each blister contains pupae yielding ~250 adults
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Ideal for easy deployment across the crop
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Designed with a ventilated top for adult emergence
Bottled Format
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Available as 1,000 pupae in a moist vermiculite carrier
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125ml bottles for high-intensity outbreaks
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500ml bottles for wide-area distribution
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Suitable for mixing with moist peat or applying directly to capillary matting or media
How to Use
Application Guidelines for Best Results
Blister Pack Instructions
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Keep at room temperature until adults emerge
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Open box in the greenhouse
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Separate blister packs along perforations
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Pull tab to open the top and hang onto shaded leaf petioles
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Position some in aphid-infested zones, others in clean areas
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Apply during early morning or dusk for maximum dispersal
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Avoid direct sunlight and high heat exposure
Bottle Instructions
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Open bottle in the crop zone
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Divide carrier material into small piles or cups of moist peat
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Distribute evenly across the crop area
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Alternatively, apply directly onto media or moist mats near plants
Storage and Transport
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Keep in darkness at 6–8°C (43–46°F)
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Do not refrigerate or expose to sunlight
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Use within 18 hours of receipt
Final Words
Aphidoline offers fast and aggressive control of aphid infestations through the unique predatory behavior of Aphidoletes aphidimyza larvae. With more than 60 target species, flexible application formats, and rapid development in warm environments, it delivers results where other methods may lag.
For growers dealing with stubborn aphid outbreaks in greenhouses, Aphidoline delivers curative strength and integrated pest management compatibility—making it a key addition to any sustainable crop protection program.
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