Hello,
we are facing to some problem with Macrolophus pygmaeus population in the greenhouse. We have introduce Macrolophus bug into the tomato greenhouse 5 months ago and reintroduce it about 4 weeks ago. We haven´t used any chemical pesticides, temperature is optimal, we even feed them by Ephestia eggs. So far, the development is very weak and we are in the risk of some pest probem (whiteflies).
What could have caused such problem to Macrolophus population? Could it be Entomophtora?
Some ideas how to help Macrolophus to build up a strong population?
Thank you
Hello Vaclav,
Entomophthora is unlikely, as this typically occurs when one has high Macrolophus densities. Also, you would notice the typical symptoms of affected Macrolophus. You could try feeding with Artemia full field. See also https://doi.org/10.1016/j.biocontrol.2012.06.011
If you send me an email at [email protected], we can discuss this issue further.
Hi Vaclav Psota , I have a bit of experience in growing cotton in green houses. There are whiteflies in green houses which are hard to control with pesticides even. My suggestion would be to alter the green house conditions if possible, aeration etc with additional fans inside the greenhouse and bringing down humidity for some time. Intercultivation within the rows will also help the plants grow well. Good luck.
You can read this paper
https://www.researchgate.net/deref/https%3A%2F%2Fdoi.org%2F10.1016%2Fj.biocontrol.2012.06.011
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