Biological control of whitefly and thrips
Starskii is a biological control agent containing the predatory mite Amblyseius swirskii. It is primarily used to control whiteflies and thrips but can also reduce populations of other small pest species. These mites reproduce quickly under warm, humid conditions and can survive cooler nights and even overwinter in semi-protected crops.
Benefits of Starskii
- ✅Rapid reproduction: Breeds quickly in warm, humid environments.
- ✅Multi-pest control: Feeds on thrips larvae and whitefly eggs and L1 larvae.
- ✅Survives in tough conditions: Endures cooler temperatures and winters in semi-protected crops.
- ✅Feeds on pollen: Extends survival in the absence of pest prey.
Uses for Swirski Mites
• Western Flower thrips
• Chili thrips
• Onion thrips
• Greenhouse whitefly
• Silverleaf/Potato whitefly
Application of Starskii Tube
• Ideal for use on protected crops in warm conditions, such as peppers, cucumbers, gerbera and eggplant. It can be used on non-protected crops, provided that average daytime temperatures exceed 68°F/20°C.
• Establishment will be fastest on crops with ample pollen, such as pepper crops, as the pollen provides an alternative, high quality food source for the mites. Crops without pollen will have slower establishment, but using sachets that continually release mites over several weeks will improve results.
• Best used early in crop/pest cycle to prevent whitefly and thrips buildup since it does not feed on adult stages.
• Is active at 68°F/20°C, but performance increases at higher temperatures.
