The new 2000 m2 production facility opened in April this year. Equipped with climate chambers similar to 'vertical farming', Aphidoletes aphidimyza production has been optimised to give Biobest a guaranteed rapid and reliable supply of this natural pest control. Since growers must act quickly to keep aphids under control, speed is of the essence.
Voracious predators
Aphids present one of the biggest challenges for biological pest control in both ornamental and vegetable crops. The female Aphidoletes aphidimyza gall midge boasts an exceptional search behaviour that compels it to actively seek out aphid hot spots and lay eggs in, or within, the vicinity. The larvae are voracious predators and consume virtually all aphid species. Indeed, they begin devouring entire aphids almost immediately upon hatching. Moreover, this particular species does not damage leaves unlike other gall midges.
Increasing demand for aphid pest control