Staphyline - Tub - 3000 Individuals

Staphyline is a highly effective biological control agent formulated with the predatory beetle Atheta coriaria. This fast-moving, soil-dwelling predator is renowned for its aggressive feeding behavior, particularly against larvae of fungus gnats and shoreflies. Designed for use in a wide range of protected crops such as herbs, ornamentals, and other greenhouse plants, Staphyline provides reliable pest control below the soil surface, where pests often go unnoticed.

As a generalist predator, Atheta coriaria also feeds on thrips pupae and other small insects dwelling in compost, potting media, or areas with algal buildup. Its excellent mobility and adaptability to fluctuating environmental conditions make Staphyline an ideal year-round solution for soil and compost pest control.

How Staphyline Works

A Targeted Predator for Soil-Based Pests

Staphyline is most effective when used preventively or early in the crop cycle. Once introduced into the growing environment, adult beetles and their juvenile stages quickly disperse through the media in search of prey. Their primary targets include:

• Fungus gnat larvae (Bradysia spp., Lycoriella spp., Sciara spp.)

• Shorefly larvae (Scatella spp.)

• Thrips pupae that drop to the soil for development

The beetles belong to a family known for their aggressive hunting behavior, consuming a wide range of soft-bodied insect larvae found in potting soil and organic substrates. Their rapid movement and visual presence make them easy to track during scouting.

Mixed Life Stage Advantage

Each unit of Staphyline contains a well-balanced mix of:

• Adults

• Larvae

• Pupae

• Eggs

This ensures continuous activity across multiple generations and supports sustained population development after release. The mixed life stages allow the predator to quickly establish and adapt to ongoing pest pressures.

Environmental Flexibility

Staphyline is remarkably tolerant of diverse greenhouse conditions, functioning well under:

• Temperatures ranging from 54–95°F (12–35°C)

• Varying light intensities

• High and low humidity levels

• Different irrigation schedules and soil types

This flexibility makes Staphyline an excellent year-round biological control agent in both small-scale and commercial greenhouse operations.

Application Guidelines

Best Practices

• Rotate the tube several times before opening to evenly distribute the contents

• Open the lid by pushing the marked cut-out, then rotate the cover to the open position

• Gently shake the contents directly onto potting soil, capillary matting, and moist areas likely to harbor pest larvae

• Focus on locations with visible algal growth or signs of breeding activity

For best results:

• Introduce Staphyline early in the growing cycle

• Use in conjunction with yellow sticky traps to monitor pest reduction

• Expect a noticeable drop in trap catches within 2–6 weeks after application

• Avoid using incompatible soil-incorporated insecticides without prior compatibility testing

Consult your Bioline App or advisor for crop-specific release rates and integrated control strategies.

Available Delivery Systems

Staphyline is available in two practical formats:

• 1L (1qt) cardboard tube – contains 500 predators, ideal for small-to-medium-sized growing areas

• Bulk bag – contains 3,000 predators, designed for large-scale commercial use

These formats ensure flexibility and convenience across a wide range of crop sizes and management systems.

Storage and Handling

• Store in a dark location at 10–15°C (50–59°F)

• Keep in original packaging until ready to use

• Do not expose to direct sunlight

• Use within 18 hours of receipt for optimal performance

Proper handling preserves beetle vitality and ensures maximum impact upon application.

Recommendations

Staphyline is a reliable and sustainable solution for controlling soil-dwelling insect pests in protected crops. Its ability to target fungus gnats, shoreflies, and thrips pupae without the use of synthetic chemicals makes it an integral component of any greenhouse pest management plan.

By combining environmental adaptability, high mobility, and multi-stage population dynamics, Staphyline ensures effective pest suppression where it's needed most—at the root zone. Ideal for herbs, ornamentals, and sensitive plants, Staphyline provides natural, residue-free protection that supports healthier plants and stronger crops.