Description
Trichogramma Parasitic Wasps are tiny, highly efficient biological control agents used to prevent the emergence of caterpillar pests in a wide variety of crops. Less than 1 mm in size, these parasitic wasps work by targeting pest eggs—laying their own eggs inside them and eliminating the threat before it ever becomes a problem.
Originally commercialized to control Tuta absoluta in tomatoes under the trade name Tricholine TA, Trichogramma Parasitic Wasps have since proven effective against a wide spectrum of lepidopteran pests. Their discreet yet destructive approach to pest suppression makes them one of the most reliable natural tools for early intervention in crop protection.
How Trichogramma Parasitic Wasps Work
Targeting Pest Eggs Before They Hatch
The life cycle of Trichogramma begins when the female wasp finds a pest egg and lays her own egg inside it. As the Trichogramma larva develops, it feeds on the contents of the host egg, ultimately killing the pest embryo before it becomes a caterpillar. This approach stops crop damage before it even begins.
In addition to parasitism, adult Trichogramma females will also kill pest eggs by feeding on them. When a host egg is stung, droplets of fluid form at the site, which the wasp consumes—rendering the egg non-viable. These parasitized eggs do not hatch and leave no evidence of infestation.
Broad Spectrum Pest Control
Trichogramma Parasitic Wasps are effective against a range of lepidopteran pests, including:
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Tuta absoluta
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Duponchelia spp.
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Chrysodeixis spp.
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Heliothis spp.
These pests, known for their rapid reproduction and destructive feeding habits, can devastate crops if not managed early. Trichogramma provides pre-emptive, natural protection, ensuring healthier plants and improved yields.
Versatile Across Crop Types
This biological control agent is suitable for a wide range of crops, including:
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Tomatoes
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Bell peppers
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Aubergines
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Ornamentals
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Tobacco
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Bananas
Thanks to their broad host range and adaptable delivery system, Trichogramma Parasitic Wasps are ideal for protected and open-field crops alike.
Key Benefits of Trichogramma Parasitic Wasps
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Eliminates pests before they hatch, reducing crop damage from caterpillars
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Leaves no visible evidence of pest activity—parasitized eggs do not hatch
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Compatible with most IPM strategies
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100% natural and residue-free
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Helps manage resistance to chemical treatments
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Reduces labor: eliminates the need for manual pest removal, especially in tomatoes
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Customizable doses suitable for all crop sizes and surface areas
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Environmentally friendly packaging made of biodegradable card
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Over 25 years of commercial use and development ensure high product quality
Application Instructions
Using the Dispenser Cards
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Carefully separate each biodegradable dispenser card by folding along the perforated lines and pulling apart
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Hang each card directly onto the plant, ideally on a central stem or branch
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Position cards around the mid-point of plant height for best distribution
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For accurate application rates and timing, consult your Bioline advisor for a full treatment program
This simple application method makes Trichogramma easy to integrate into any pest prevention plan, without the need for special tools or training.
Delivery System Options
Trichogramma Parasitic Wasps are supplied in practical and easy-to-use dispensers. Each unit contains parasitized moth eggs housing developing Trichogramma pupae, ensuring gradual emergence and long-lasting activity.
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Units of 25 dispensers – Each card contains 2,500 Trichogramma pupae
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Units of 100 dispensers – Ideal for larger coverage areas and commercial-scale crops
The dispensers can be hung directly onto plants, enabling convenient and effective release into the growing environment.
Storage and Handling
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Store at 12°C in a cool, dry location
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Avoid exposure to direct sunlight
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Use promptly upon receipt for optimal wasp emergence and activity
Following proper storage ensures that the wasps remain viable and perform effectively upon release.
Recommendations
Trichogramma Parasitic Wasps offer growers a proactive, natural solution to caterpillar pest control. Their precise egg-targeting behavior allows for early, invisible pest suppression that leaves no residues and aligns perfectly with sustainable agriculture practices.
With customizable delivery options and compatibility across multiple crops and pest species, Trichogramma can be easily adopted as part of any IPM strategy. Whether you're managing Tuta absoluta in tomatoes or lepidopteran larvae in ornamentals, this biological tool provides safe, efficient, and cost-effective protection all season long.
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