Orius
Orius tantillus
Overview
Orius tantillus (Orius) is a predator of various species of thrips, especially Western Flower Thrips (Frankliniella occidentalis) and Onion Thrips (Thrips tabaci).
Both adult and juvenile Orius feed on all stages of thrips, including adults. In the absence of thrips, Orius can survive on spider mites, butterfly/moth eggs and pollen.
Worldwide, Orius species are used to control thrips in capsicum (sweet pepper) crops and in strawberry, eggplant (aubergine), and some ornamentals.
Crops that cycle for at least 6 months and that constantly produce flowers with pollen are best suited to Orius. Roses and other flowers grown for cut flower production are generally not suitable, and cucumbers do not provide an adequate pollen source for Orius to survive. In these situations, banker plants will be needed for Orius to establish.
Orius should be used in conjunction with Neoseiulus cucumeris, Typhlodromips montdorensis, Hypoaspis aculeifer, Franklinothrips vespiformis and Dalotia coriaria to assist in thrips control.
Pests Orius can help you control
You can use Orius as an effective biocontrol for thrips, especially the Western Flower Thrips and Onion Thrips, in capsicum, strawberries and eggplant.
Orius will also attack spider mites and butterfly/moth eggs when it encounters them in the crop but will not provide complete control of these pests.
ORIUS-A is also available. Orius-A is a strain of the predatory bug Orius that has been developed to resist abamectin, a chemical commonly used to control broad mites. This strain allows growers to continue using abamectin without harming Orius populations, which are vital for controlling thrips in crops like capsicums and strawberries.
Certain pesticides and fungicides affect Orius so contact your local Biological Services consultant for specific advice.
How Orius controls pests among crops
Orius feed on live prey at all life stages, with adults able to kill up to 20 thrips per day. When the pest population is high, Orius will kill more thrips than are required for their nutritional needs. Orius adults are competent fliers and can move through your crop quickly when searching for food.
How you can order Orius
You can order Orius and Orius-A from Biological Services in biodegradable cups containing 2000 adults and nymphs/cup.
We need several weeks’ notice to prepare Orius-A which is available to all growers who would like to use it. Contracts are not required.
Get tailored advice for your commercial crop
To speak with one of our qualified consultants about your current commercial crop challenge or to learn about the benefits of the IPM maintenance and monitoring services we provide, contact us.
Sign up to our mailing list
Subscribe to hear about new products, industry updates and company news.