BioBee BioSwirskii Whitefly Control

A worldwide biological control against whiteflies and thrips!

BioBee's Bio® Swirskii is a predatory mite, Amblyseius swirskii, of east Mediterranean origin. A. swirskii is a generalist predator and feeds on various insects and mites, making it a worldwide biological control agent against whiteflies and thrips. Bio® Swirskii is packed in a 1-liter container. The mites are mixed with bran, along with their food, the prey mite, Carpoglyphus lactis. The prey mites do not survive on the plant and are harmless to the crop. Bio® Swirski is compatible with selective conventional chemicals (according to the list of compatible chemicals provided by BioBee).

Adult female A. swirskii appear off-white and droplet-shaped. This species has a characteristic rapid movement when disturbed or exposed to bright light. The eggs are oval-shaped and transparent to white.

Prior to release, place the container in a horizontal position and rotate gently to allow proper mixing of the predatory mites in the bran carrier. Sprinkle over plant leaves or place into a BioBee D-BoxThe former application method is good for horizontal crops whereas the latter is more effective in vertical crops. Apply Bio® Swirski either early in the morning or late in the afternoon, under relatively mild temperatures. During application, the containers should be taken from shipment package one by one and the predators should be released immediately. If necessary, Bio® Swirski can be stored for 24 hours at a temperature of 50-60°F from the time of arrival until release, but it should never be frozen or left exposed to direct sunlight.

In crops where Amblyseius swirskii can feed on pollen, such as sweet pepper, Bio® Swirski can be introduced preventively before the appearance of the target pests, when flowers first appear. When pollen is not available for the predators, Amblyseius swirskii should be introduced upon the first appearance of the target pests. The release rate depends upon the nature of the crop, the ecosystem (e.g. open field or greenhouse) and the rate of pest infestation. Temperatures of 70-80°F and humidity above 60 percent enhances predator activity and ensures success.

These live insects MUST ship via two-day air. Please call for pricing. This product is not valid for any free or reduced shipping offers.