Biological control of greenhouse whitefly
Encarline contains the parasitic wasp Encarsia formosa, a highly effective natural enemy of greenhouse whitefly. Thanks to its unique card-based release system and high emergence rates, this product ensures reliable and long-lasting pest suppression in crops.
Benefits of Encarline Card :
- ✅High emergence rates: Maximum number of wasps hatch and spread throughout the crop.
- ✅Easy monitoring: Parasitised whitefly scales turn black and are easy to spot.
- ✅Protected pupae: Pupae are placed in a recessed “well” on the card to prevent damage during transport.
Target pests
Encarsia is used to control greenhouse whitefly (Trialeurodes vaporariorum), a common pest in protected cropping systems.
How Encarsia works
Encarsia performs best in cooler conditions, with an optimal range of 20–25°C (68–77°F). At 21°C (70°F), development from egg to adult takes about 25 days. The pupae on the cards produce adult female wasps for at least a week after being hung in the crop. These wasps search actively for third and fourth instar whitefly larvae. When a suitable host is found, the female lays an egg inside. The Encarsia larva then consumes the whitefly from within, killing it.
Additional action: feeding and parasitizing
A female wasp kills more whiteflies than she parasitizes. When she doesn’t lay an egg, she pierces the host to feed on it, which increases her lifespan and boosts the number of eggs she can lay providing an extra level of pest control.
