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Aphidius
colemani is a small wasp.
It belongs in the family
Braconidae. It
is about the size of a gnat (2-3 mm long) and cannot sting humans.
They can be found naturally occurring or can be release in greenhouses or
nurseries to
gain control of several aphid species. Their ideal temperature range in
50-77 degrees F and a relative humidity of 70-80%. It is used to control
green peach and melon aphids among others.
These wasps work by finding colonies
of aphids and the female wasp bends her abdomen and stabs the aphid. When she does
this she lays a single egg inside the body of the aphid. Each
female can lay over 100 eggs.
The wasp larva feeds on the
aphid and eventually spinning a cocoon, still inside the aphids body.
Once the wasp has matured it will emerge out the back of the aphid body,
which has swollen to look like a hard brown shell
Commercial Growers:
Aphidius colemani has proven
to be an essential part of an aphid management program for commercial
growers. Suppliers for
commercial growers.
For Homeowner:
These wasps are naturally occurring so
by providing a habitat for them it will encourage them to stay and
parasitize aphids. Attracting
beneficials. If you do want to purchase them please see the
suppliers for
homeowners. |
