Biological control of hard-to-control thrips

Franklino predatory thrips are used for more difficult thrips infestations, for example against exotic, often dark, thrips species that have become increasingly common in cultivation. The product consists of approximately 150 adult predatory thrips of the species Franklinothrips vespiformis.

What are Franklino predatory thrips?

Franklino predatory thrips (Franklinothrips vespiformis) are cannibal thrips that eat other thrips species. Exotic thrips species are increasingly becoming a problem in the ornamental plant trade. In prolonged and difficult-to-control thrips infestations, Franklino predatory thrips are the beneficial insect of choice, as they can control thrips species that other beneficial insects struggle with.

Which pests are controlled?

Franklino predatory thrips eat a wide range of thrips species, including flower thrips (Frankliniella occidentalis) and also more difficult-to-control leaf-dwelling thrips such as Echinothrips, orchid thrips (Chaetanophothrips orchidii), Japanese flower thrips (Thrips setosus), brown greenhouse thrips (Hercinothrips femoralis) and Thrips parvispinus. Some of these are dark in color and may also have white markings on their bodies.

What do thrips infestations look like?

Thrips infestations can appear as silvery areas where thrips have scraped the plant's leaves. After a while, the infestation can lead to stunted growth and the existing leaves withering. Small, black fecal spots can also be seen on the plant's leaves.

How do Franklino predatory thrips work?

Franklinothrips are aggressive predatory thrips that consume both nymphs (younger life stages) and adult thrips. They reside on the plant's leaves where the infestation primarily occurs. The species has a rapid population increase as the populations mainly consist of females, each of whom can lay up to 300 eggs during their lifetime.

Usage:

The package contains approximately 150 predatory thrips and is suitable for use on ornamental plants indoors at temperatures between 18 and 30 degrees Celsius. The predatory thrips can be used year-round, but the best effect is achieved during the brighter months from March to September.

Distribute the predatory thrips evenly over the plant's leaves. Use approximately 10 to 20 individuals per square meter. The product can be used alone or in combination with other beneficial insects, such as predatory mites and Orius bugs.

Monitor the control:

Full effect is usually achieved after 5 to 6 weeks when the predatory thrips have established themselves. The adult Franklinothrips is black and resembles an ant in appearance, movement pattern, and size. The larva is easy to recognize as it is distinctly orange in color. Buy Franklino thrips online!