Biological control of whiteflies and thrips
Starskii is a biological control agent containing the predatory mite Amblyseius swirskii. It is primarily used for the control of whiteflies and thrips, but also contributes to the reduction of other small pest species.
Benefits of Starskii :
- ✅Rapid reproduction: Breeds quickly under warm and humid conditions.
- ✅Effective predator: Feeds on thrips larvae (L1) and whitefly eggs and young larvae.
- ✅Pollen feeding: Survives in the absence of prey by feeding on pollen.
- ✅Tolerant to cold: Survives cooler night temperatures and winters in semi-protected crops.
Main uses
Starskii is used for the biological control of: Western Flower Thrips, Chili Thrips, Onion Thrips, Greenhouse Whitefly, Silverleaf / Potato Whitefly.
How it works
Starskii is ideal for use in protected crops under warm conditions, such as peppers, cucumbers, gerbera and eggplants. It can also be used in open-field crops if the average daytime temperature exceeds 20°C (68°F). The mites establish most quickly on crops with ample pollen, such as peppers, which provide an alternative high-quality food source. In crops without pollen, establishment is slower but can be improved by using slow-release sachets that dispense mites over several weeks. For best results, apply early in the crop or pest cycle to prevent population buildup. Note that Starskii does not feed on adult stages of thrips or whiteflies. The mites become active at 20°C (68°F) and show increased performance at higher temperatures.
