APHELIcontrol contains mummies of the parasitic wasp Aphelinus abdominalis. This parasitic wasp primarily targets potato aphids (Macrosiphum euphorbiae) and foxglove aphids (Aulacorthum solani), similar to Aphidius ervi. However, Aphelinus abdominalis has a slower onset but a longer duration of effectiveness compared to Aphidius ervi.
The adult parasitic wasp lays eggs inside aphids after stunning them by stinging their legs. This process of egg deposition can take between 20 to 60 seconds. Aphelinus abdominalis can lay approximately 80 to 100 eggs per day. Additionally, adults kill numerous aphids through host feeding, extending their lifespan. Parasitized aphids transform into leathery black-colored mummies from which the mature parasitic wasps emerge. Mummies can be observed in the greenhouse around 10 days after the introduction of the parasitic wasps. Female parasitic wasps can parasitize aphids for up to two months.
Advantages
- ✅ Highly effective against potato aphids and foxglove aphids.
- ✅ Longevity enhanced by feeding on hosts.
- ✅ Vigorous and proactive searching behavior.
- ✅ High ovi position of 80-100 eggs per day.
- ✅ Resilient to hyperparasitism.
