Aphidius colemani

Take control of aphid infestations with Aphidius colemani, a specialized parasitoid wasp that targets over 40 species of small-bodied aphids, including Black Bean Aphids, Peach Aphids, Lettuce Aphids, and Green Apple Aphids. Perfect for vegetable, fruit, and ornamental crops, these nimble and efficient predators are a key component of sustainable pest management. Each A. colemani works tirelessly to seek out aphid colonies, injecting eggs into hosts and ensuring a self-sustaining cycle of pest control.

Why Choose Aphidius colemani?

• Target Pests: Over 40 aphid species, including Cotton Aphids, Pea Aphids, Honeysuckle Aphids, and more.
• Specialized Predator: Highly effective against small-bodied aphid species that damage a variety of crops.
• Reproductive Efficiency: Females can lay more than 100 eggs during their 2-week lifespan, creating a robust population of pest controllers.
• Sustainable Solution: Provides long-term aphid management as each generation reproduces and continues the cycle.

How They Work

• Lifecycle:
  • Female A. colemani seek out aphid colonies and inject their eggs into aphid hosts.
  • Eggs hatch in 3–5 days, and larvae feed on the aphid for 5–10 days, transforming it into a “mummy.”
  • From these mummies, a new generation of parasitoids emerges to continue the process.
• Each adult parasitoid actively searches for new aphid hosts, ensuring thorough coverage in treated areas.

How to Decide How Many You Need

• Standard Application: Release 1–5 insects per 10 sq. ft. weekly for 2–3 weeks.
• Larger Areas: Scale introduction rates based on the severity of the infestation and the size of the crop.

Pro Tips for Success

• Combine for Comprehensive Control: Use Aphidius colemani alongside other aphid predators like Aphidoletes aphidimyza or ladybugs for multi-layered management of diverse aphid species.
• Monitor Aphid Activity: Introduce A. colemani early when aphids are first detected to prevent population growth.
• Avoid Pesticides: Ensure plants are pesticide-free before release, as even mild residues can harm beneficial insects.

Temperature Range

• Effective between 50–86°F.

Storage

• For best results, introduce parasitoids immediately. If storage is necessary, keep pupae at 39–46°F for up to 48 hours.