HPIPM:Biological Organism Suppliers

Author: Linda Mahaffey and Whitney Cranshaw

Insects and Mites A wide variety of beneficial organisms are offered for sale by several suppliers to assist in management of insects and mites. The following is a partial listing updated April 13, 2007. This is organized in three sections. First is a brief description of organisms with potential applications followed by reference to sources where they may be purchased. This is followed by a brief summary listing of pest groups and the associated potential biological controls. At the end is a listing of addresses of many suppliers/producers. Predators of Insects/Mites Convergent Lady Beetle/Lady Beetles. When sold as lady beetles or ladybugs the species involved is the convergent lady beetle, Hippodamia convergens, a native lady beetle found throughout North America. Purchased lady beetles are all field collected insects, captured in high elevation areas of California where they periodically migrate to and mass aggregate, allowing easy collection. Ability of the collected lady beetles to reproduce is suspended (they are in "reproductive diapause") so eggs are not produced for several weeks after release. (Pre-feeding lady beetles prior to release can allow some egg maturation to start and a few companies provide such "pre-conditioned" lady beetles). Lady beetles tend to readily disperse from the area of release. Since they store well, lady beetles are available most of the year, although supplies often are limited by midsummer. Sources: 1, 2, 3, 4, 6, 7, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 26, 27, 29, 30, 31, 32, 34, 35, 37, 41, 42, 44 Multicolored Asian Lady Beetle. The multicolored Asian lady beetle, Harmonia axyridis, is a species that was purposefully introduced into North America and has now become widely distributed. It is a fairly large species with highly variable markings and is a voracious predator of aphids, particularly on shade trees. However, it has the somewhat unfortunate habit of often wintering in homes, where it may be a nuisance problem. They go into dormancy (diapause) when day length becomes less than 16 hours. Sources: USDA has asked for this insect to be withdrawn due to a new definition listing it as a pest. Sevenspotted Lady Beetle. The sevenspotted lady beetle, Coccinella septempunctata, is the lady beetle of nursery rhymes, an introduced species from Europe. It is now widely distributed in North America and a common species. It can be found in many crops, but is particularly common in gardens and field crops, rather than on trees and shrubs. The adults and larvae are voracious eaters of aphids. Sources: 16, 37, 42, 43 Twospotted Lady Beetle. The twospotted lady beetle, Adalia bipunctata, is an aphid predator that most commonly forages on shade trees, shrubs, and fruit trees. It is widely established and common in most of North America. Sources: 30, 33, 36, 40, 45 Mealybug Destroyer. The mealybug destroyer, Cryptolaemus montrouzieri, is a tropical species of lady beetle used to control citrus mealybug. They primarily feed on eggs and some small nymphs. The predatory larvae are covered with wax threads and appear similar to mealybugs. Effectiveness declines during periods of short day length or in cool conditions. Sources: 2, 3, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 16, 17, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 26, 27, 30, 31, 32, 33, 34, 35, 36, 37, 39, 42, 44, 45 Whitefly Predator. Lady beetles in the genus Delphastus feed on eggs and small nymphs of whitefly, particularly sweetpotato/silverleaf whitefly. High populations of whiteflies must be present to maintain reproduction of these predators. (Note: There has often been confusion as to the specific identity of Delphastus sold by suppliers. Although most list the organism as D. pusillus, D. catalinae probably predominates in most cultures for sale.) Sources (Dephastus pusillus): 9, 10, 20, 23, 24, 32, 42 Sources (Dephastus catalinae): 2, 3, 9, 12, 16, 19, 22, 30, 37, 43 Sources (Unspecified Delphastus spp.): 10, 12, 18, 25, 34 Spider Mite Destroyer. Tiny, dark lady beetles in the genus Stethorus develop as predators of spider mites. Sources (Stethorus punctillum): 3, 9, 13, 16, 19, 22, 26, 30, 32, 37, 42, 43 Sources (Unspecified Stethorus spp.): 9, 25, 26, 39 Scale Predator. A beetle, Rhyzobius (=Lindorus) lopanthae, develops as a predator of scales, particularly various armored scales (Diaspididae). Some soft scales (Coccidae) may be eaten, although effectiveness of the beetle is inhibited by the presence of honeydew. Sources: 13, 16, 19, 22, 23, 24, 26, 29, 30, 34, 37, 40, 42, 44 Scale Predator. The scale picnic beetle, Cybocephalus nipponicus, is a small black (female) to black/orange (male) beetle. It feeds on armored scales, including euonymus scale, San Jose scale, and elongate hemlock scale. It may also be a predator of other scales. Sources: 16, 17, 19, 26, 37 class=Section2> Fungus Gnat Predator. The rove beetle, Atheta coriaria, develops as a predator of shore flies, fungus gnats and small soil dwelling Diptera larvae. It is also sold to control thrips stages in soil. Sources: 9, 12, 16, 19, 26, 30, 33, 34, 36, 37, 40, 42, 43, 45 Green Lacewings. Green lacewings (Chrysoperla spp.) are general predators of a wide variety of insects, including aphids, and soft-bodied insect larvae. The most common species sold is Chrysoperla rufilabris, a native of southeastern US mostly associated with trees/shrubs, and C. carnea, a native western species found most commonly in agricultural settings. Chrysoperla comanche is also sold. They are one of the most widely available insects used in biological control, functioning as a sort of general predators. They are usually sold as eggs, most often mixed with a carrier such as rice hulls to be sprinkled around plants. Some suppliers apply the eggs to cards that can be hung on plants. Less commonly adults, or pupae shipped in cells, may also be purchased. Shipped insects should be released soon after receipt as the larvae are cannibalistic and eggs should not be chilled. Ants are an important predator of the eggs and may disrupt the effectiveness of a release if abundant. Adults are not predatory but feed on nectar and pollen. Sources (C. rufilabris): 1, 2, 4, 7, 15, 16, 19, 21, 24, 26, 29, 30, 35, 37, 41 Sources (C. carnea): 1, 2, 9, 10, 11, 16, 21, 23, 24, 27, 30, 33, 36, 37, 40, 45 Sources (C. comanche): 21, 24 Sources (Unspecified Chrysoperla spp.): 3, 5, 6, 10, 12, 13, 17, 18, 20, 26, 28, 31, 34, 35, 42, 44 Chinese Mantid. The Chinese mantid, Tenodera aridofolia sinensis, is the only species of commercial trade. (The praying mantid/European mantid, Mantis religiosa, is not sold.) They are sold as egg cases (oothecae) each containing approximately 100-200 eggs. Adult Chinese mantids reach a size of about 4 inches and are the largest mantids found in North America. They are poorly adapted to surviving winter conditions in northern areas and may die out where winters are sufficiently harsh. Mantid egg cases are usually available only during spring through early summer. They are generalist predators of a wide variety of insects, including some beneficial species. Their effectiveness for control of pests is marginal, but they are striking insects that are an attractive complement to the garden. Sources: 1, 3, 4, 7, 10, 12, 13, 14, 16, 17, 19, 21, 23, 24, 30, 31, 32, 34, 35, 37, 41, 42 Aphid Predator Midge. Larva of a tiny fly, Aphidoletes aphidimyza develops as predator of aphids. It is a native insect of the region, found most commonly in late summer within aphid colonies. Aphidoletes aphidimyza is sold for use in greenhouses, supplied as pupae that disperse after they transform to the adult stage. When used during winter supplemental lighting must be provided to maintain a minimum of 16 hours of daylight or the predators become dormant. Sources: 2, 3, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 16, 17, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 29, 30, 32, 33, 34, 35, 36, 37, 42, 43, 44, 45 class=Section3> Spider Mite Predator Midge. Larvae of another gall midge, Feltiella acarisuga (=Therodiplosis persicae), are sometimes sold for control of twospotted spider mite. Sources (Feltiella acarisuga (=Therodiplosis persicae): 3, 9, 11, 16, 17, 19, 25, 26, 30, 32, 33, 36, 37, 42, 45 Sixspotted Thrips. The sixspotted thrips, Scolothrips sexmaculatus, is a predator of spider mites and thrips, reported to be adapted to hot and dry conditions. Sources: 39 Spider Mite Predators/Predatory Mites. Several species of commercially available predatory mites (Phytoseiidae family) appear to have some particular applications particularly for greenhouse and interiorscape use where humidity is adequate. Each predatory mite species has a range of temperature and humidity under which they are most efficient, and some require humidity conditions rarely reached in arid areas of the country. The more experienced suppliers/producers can provide consultation as to appropriate species to consider. Sources (Neoseiulus californicus): 2, 3, 4, 8, 9, 10, 11, 16, 17, 19, 21, 23, 24, 25, 26, 30, 31, 33, 34, 36, 37, 39, 40, 42, 44, 45 Sources (Neoseiulus (=Amblyseius) fallacis): 8, 9, 12, 13, 16, 17, 19, 20, 22, 26, 30, 34, 37, 42, 43, 44 Sources (Amblyseius (Typhlodromips) swirskii): 36, 40, 45 Sources (Western predatory mite, Galendromus (=Mesoseiulus) occidentalis): 2, 3, 8, 10, 16, 17, 19, 21, 23, 26, 29, 30, 31, 37, 39, 42 Sources (Mesoseiulus (=Phytoseiulus) longipes): 2, 3, 4, 8, 9, 10, 11, 13, 16, 17, 19, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 29, 30, 31, 32, 33, 34, 35, 36, 37, 40, 41, 42 Sources (Phytoseiulus persimilis): 2, 3, 4, 8, 9, 10, 11, 13, 16, 17, 19, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 29, 31, 33, 34, 35, 36, 37, 40, 41, 43, 44, 45 Sources (Galendromus annectens): 2, 8, 3-24, 34, 42 Sources (Galendromus helveoulus): 2, 8, 42 Sources (Predatory mites, unspecified and/or mixtures): 2, 16, 17, 18, 24, 26, 28, 33, 34, 36, 40, 41, 42, 44 Thrips Predators/Predatory Mites. Two species of commercially available predatory mites (Neoseiulus (=Amblyseius) cucumeris, A. degenerans) feed primarily on thrips, particularly flower thrips. Pollen may be an important part of the diet of these predators. Sources (Neoseiulus (=Amblyseius) cucumeris): 2, 3, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 16, 17, 19, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 29, 30, 31, 33, 34, 35, 36, 37, 40, 42, 43, 44, 45 Sources (Amblyseius degenerans): 9, 12, 25, 26, 33, 36, 40, 42, 45 Pirate Bugs. Pirate bugs (Orius spp.) are small black and white bugs that are generalist predators of small insects (e.g., thrips, aphids), mites, and insect eggs. Many species are present in the region and they are very important natural controls. At least two species are sold commercially. Sources (Orius insidiosus): 3, 9, 11, 12, 13, 16, 17, 19, 20, 22, 26, 29, 30, 33, 36, 37, 42, 44, 45 Sources (Orius laevigatus): 11 Sources (Orius majusculus): not found in current survey; previously available Sources (Unspecified Orius spp.): 10, 23, 24, 25, 32, 34, 35, 40 Big-eyed Bug. Big-eyed bugs (Geocoris spp.) are predatory seed bugs that feed on a wide variety of insects, including aphids, soft-bodied insect larvae, and insect eggs. Several species are native to the region. Geocoris punctipes appears to be the species that has been commercially available. Sources: No sources for this insect were found in 2007; suppliers were noted in the 2002 survey Predatory Plant Bug. A predatory plant bug, Deraeocoris brevis, is a generalist predator of soft-bodied insects and is native to the region. Sources: 24, 35 Whitefly Predator Bug. The mirid bug, Macrolophus caliginosus, is a predator of whiteflies. Both adults and larvae feed on all stages of whiteflies and are sometimes used in crops such as tomato, eggplant, peppers, and ornamentals. This species is reported to be effective at lower temperatures than some other biological controls of whiteflies. Sources: This insect is now illegal to distribute in the USA. Spined Soldier Bug. The spined soldier bug, Podisus maculiventris, is a native species of stink bug that is predatory on many types of caterpillars and leaf beetle larvae. Experimental work with the species is limited, although naturally occurring populations have often been reported as useful biological control agents. Sources: 3, 9, 16, 19, 30, 33, 35, 36, 37, 42, 45 Soil Predator Mite. The soil dwelling mite, Hypoaspsis miles, is a generalist predator of mites and insects that spend part of their life cycle in the soil, including fungus gnat larvae and pupae of thrips. Once introduced, H. miles usually can reproduce and establish. Sources (Hypoaspsis miles): 9, 10, 12, 13, 16, 18, 19, 20, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 29, 30, 33, 35, 36, 37, 42, 43, 44, 45 Sources (Unspecified Hypoaspsis spp.): 3, 9, 11, 17, 25, 32, 33 Parasites/Parasitoids of Insects Trichogramma Wasps. Several species of Trichogramma wasps exist, all of which attack and kill various kinds of insect eggs. Insect larvae already hatched are not susceptible to Trichogramma attack. Eggs that Trichogramma will parasitized are from insects in the order Lepidoptera (moths and butterflies), which includes cutworms, codling moth, cabbageworms and armyworms. Commercially available Trichogramma wasps are often used as a form of a biological insecticide where they are expected to eliminate most of the developing eggs of pests shortly after release. High levels of control are not often achieved in practice, but the wasps may effectively supplement existing controls. Multiple releases of Trichogramma wasps are recommended, since persistence of the parasites may be short-term. Several different species of Trichogramma wasps are produced (e.g., T. minutum, T. platneri, T. pretiosum) and they have different habits. The more sophisticated suppliers will provide advice on which species is most appropriate for the intended crop and pest. Sources (Trichogramma minutum): 1, 2, 10, 13, 15, 16, 18, 30, 35, 36, 37 Sources (Trichogramma brassicae): 9, 13, 16, 17, 19, 22, 26, 29, 30, 33, 34, 35, 36, 37 Sources (Trichogramma platneri): 2, 9, 10, 16, 21, 24, 26, 33, 34, 35, 36, 37, 42 Sources (Trichogramma pretiosum): 1, 2, 9, 10, 13, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 24, 30, 33, 34, 35, 36, 37, 42 Sources (Trichogrammatoidea bactrae): 4, 10, 42 Sources (Unspecified Trichogramma spp.): 3, 5, 6, 14, 15, 17, 23, 34, 25, 28, 31, 32, 34, 42 Fly Parasites (Fly Predators). Several species of parasitic wasps develop in the pupae of filth breeding flies species of Muscidifurax (M. raptor, M. zaraptor, M. raptorellus), Spalangia (S. cameroni, S. endius, S. nigroaenea) and Nasonia vitripennis. These are used to suppress nuisance flies that develop on manure produced where livestock is kept. They are most widely marketed to suppress flies in horse facilities. Sources (Muscidifurax raptor): 16, 30 Sources (Muscidifurax raptorellus): 30, 37 Sources (Muscidifurax zaraptor): 10, 30, 31 Sources (Spalangia endius): 1, 20, 31 Sources (Nasonia vitripennis): 10, 31, 40 Sources (Unspecified mixtures of fly parasites): 2, 10, 16, 17, 19, 23, 24, 28, 29, 31, 32, 34, 37, 38, 42 Aphid Parasites. Several small parasitic wasps are commercially available, primarily for control of aphids in greenhouses or interiorscapes. Some are generalists, other more specific as to the aphids they will attack. Among the most commonly available (and their hosts) are Aphelinus abdominalis (green peach aphid), Aphidius colemani (melon/cotton aphid, green peach aphid), Aphidius ervi (potato aphid, pea aphid, green peach aphid), and Aphidius matricariae (green peach aphid). Sources (Aphelinus abdominalis): 9, 16, 19, 22, 25, 26, 30, 33, 36, 37, 40, 42, 45 Sources (Aphidius colemani): 3, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 16, 17, 19, 21, 22, 23, 25, 26, 27, 29, 33, 35, 36, 37, 40, 42, 44, 45 Sources (Aphidius matricariae): 9, 12, 13, 16, 19, 22, 24, 26, 32, 37, 42, 43, 44 Sources (Aphidius ervi): 9, 11, 16, 19, 22, 23, 25, 26, 29, 30, 33, 36, 37, 42, 45 Sources (Unspecified Aphidius species or mixture): 10, 20, 25, 26, 30, 33, 36, 40, 45 Greenhouse Whitefly Parasite. A small wasp, Encarsia formosa, attacks and develops within immature whitefly nymphs. Introduction of this parasitic wasp has proven useful for whitefly management in warm greenhouses (average temperatures above 720F). The whitefly parasite is supplied on cards, as developing wasps within whitefly nymphs. The latter turn black when hosting this parasite. class=Section4> Sources: 2, 3, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 29, 30, 31, 32, 33, 34, 35, 36, 37, 40, 42, 43, 44, 45 Sweetpotato Whitefly Parasite. A parasite of whiteflies is Eretmocerus eremicus (= nr. californicus). Originally developed to help manage sweetpotato whitefly it also is an effective natural enemy of greenhouse whitefly. Adult stages may kill many developing whiteflies by stinging them and blood feeding. Whitefly nymphs parasitized by this insect turn a golden color. Another whitefly parasite, E. mundus, also is used to control Bemisia spp. Sources (Eretmocerus eremicus): 2, 3, 9, 11, 13, 16, 17, 19, 22, 23, 25, 26, 29, 30, 33, 36, 37, 40, 42, 44, 45 Sources (Eretmocerus mundus): 9, 11, 16, 33, 36, 37, 44, 45 Mexican Bean Beetle Parasite. Pediobius foveolatus is a small, parasitic wasp that develops within immature stages of the Mexican bean beetle. Releases should be made shortly after bean beetle eggs are first detected. This insect does not go into winter dormancy and thus rarely, if ever, survives winters. Sources: 3, 13, 16, 19, 26, 37, 40 Mealybug Parasites. Several species of parasitic wasps are parasites of mealybug nymphs. Most commonly available is Leptomastix dactylopii, a parasite of citrus mealybug. Leptomastidea abnormis also is specific to citrus mealybug, while Anagyrus pseudococci has a somewhat broader host range and develops on Comstock mealybug as well. Sources (Leptomastix dactylopii): 9, 16, 19, 23, 24, 25, 30, 33, 36, 37, 42, 44, 45 Sources (Leptomastidea abnormis): 26 Sources (Anagyrus pseudococci): Not found in most current review of suppliers Armored Scale Parasite/Golden Chalcid. A small parasitic wasp, Aphytis melinus, develops in many armored scales associated with interiorscape plants. Sources: 2, 3, 13, 16, 19, 20, 22, 23, 24, 26, 30, 31, 34, 37, 42, 44 Soft Scale Parasite. A parasitic wasp, Metaphycus helvolus, is useful for managing black scale and hemispherical scale on interiorscape plants. The parasitic wasp, M. flavus, is an endoparasitoid of soft scales including brown scales. It practices ovicide and will destroy eggs of other wasps using its ovipositor. Sources (Metaphycus helvolus): 13, 14, 24, 30, 44 Sources (Metaphycus flavus): 30 Caterpillar Parasites. Two species of parasitic wasps attack young stages of caterpillars associated with certain vegetable crops. Cotesia marginiventris is a parasite of various loopers, such as cabbage looper. Cotesia plutellae is a parasite of diamondback moth larvae. Sources (Cotesia marginiventris): 40, 42 Sources (Cotesia plutellae): 16, 36, 37, 40 Leafminer Parasites. Two species of parasitic wasps are used to control leafminers (Liriomyza spp.). Diglyphus isaea tends to be most efficient in warmer environments; Dacnusa sibrica in cooler temperatures. Sources (Diglyphus isaea): 2, 3, 9, 13, 16, 19, 23, 25, 26, 30, 31, 33, 35, 36, 37, 42, 45 Sources (Dacnusa sibrica): 2, 3, 9, 16, 19, 20, 23, 25, 26, 30, 31, 33, 36, 37, 42, 45 Lygus Bug Egg Parasite. A minute wasp, Anaphes iole, is a parasite of eggs of Lygus bugs, which are occasional pests of fruit crops. Sources: No sources of this species were noted for sale in the 2007 survey; this was available in 2002. Pathogens of Insects Bacillus thuringiensis var. kurstaki. The kurstaki strain of the bacterium Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) is a bacterial disease organism that has been formulated into a number of microbial insecticides. Trade names include Dipel, Thuricide, Javelin, Deliver, MVP II, and Foray, among others. Applied as a dust or spray to foliage, applications of this strain is effective for control of most leaf-feeding Lepidoptera - webworms, cabbageworms, leafrollers, tussock moths, etc. (Cutworms and armyworms are often less sensitive to Bt). This product is widely available at nurseries and mail order garden catalogs. Sources: 11, 16, 24, 30, 35, 37, 45 and most nurseries Bacillus thuringiensis var. israelensis. The israelensis (or H-14) strain of Bacillus thuringiensis is effective for control of certain fly larvae, notably mosquitoes, blackflies, and fungus gnats. (It is not effective against house flies, blow flies, shore flies and many other fly species.) Formulations sold for use as a soil drench to control fungus gnats include Knock-Out Gnats and Gnatrol. Vectobac, Mosquito Dunks, Mosquito Rings, Aquabac, and Bactimos Briquets are sold for use in water to control mosquitoes and black flies. Increasingly formulations to control mosquito larvae in water are available through nurseries; formulations for fungus gnats apparently are only available through mail order. Sources: 3, 4, 10, 11, 14, 16, 19, 24, 25, 30, 31, 35, 37 and many nurseries Bacillus thuringiensis var. san diego. The san diego (= tenebrionis) strain of Bacillus thuringiensis is effective for control of certain leaf beetle larvae, notably Colorado potato beetle and elm leaf beetle. Formulations sold as Novodor and Colorado Potato Beater are available from some suppliers. Sources: 3, 19, 24, 35 and a few nurseries Milky Spore. Milky spore is a bacterium (Paenibacillus (=Bacillus) popillae) that is applied to soil to infect larvae of the Japanese beetle. Sources: 3, 4, 14, 16, 19, 32, 35, 37 Parasitic (Predatory) Nematodes/Heterorhabditis species. Insect-parasitic nematodes in the genus Heterorhabditis are applied to soil as a drench to control larvae of various insects. They are capable of penetrating the body of insect larvae and are the most effective from control of soil-dwelling white grubs and root weevils, as well as caterpillars. Several Heterorhabditis species are available, which vary some in pathogenicity to insects and sensitivity to temperature. Among those available are H. bacteriophora (=heliothidis) (e.g., HeteroMask, Grub-Away, BioStrike Hb, GrubStake Hb), H. indica (e.g., Grub Stake Hi), H. marelatus, and H. megidis. Sources (Heterorhabditis bacteriophora): 3, 7, 9, 10, 13, 16, 18, 19, 20, 22, 24, 27, 29, 30, 33, 34, 35, 36, 37, 40, 42, 45 Sources (Heterorhabditis indica): 16, 29, 37, 42 Sources (Heterorhabditis marelatus): 16, 24, 29, 37, 40, 42 Sources (Heterorhabditis megidis): 4, 9, 11, 13, 30, 33, 36, 40, 45, 46 Sources (Unspecified Heterorhabditis spp.): 16, 31, 34, 37, 46 Parasitic (Predatory) Nematodes/Steinernema species. Insect-parasitic nematodes in the genus Steinernema are similarly applied to soil as a drench to control larvae of various insects. They are somewhat more specific in their host range and do poorly on beetle larvae, but do have a wide range that includes most other insects that have some life stages in soil. Most commonly available is Steinernema carpocapsae which is used for control insects such as cutworms, thrips pupae, and fungus gnat larvae. Steinernema feltiae (=bibionis) (e.g., ScanMask, Gnat Not) is thought more effective for control of fly larvae such as fungus gnats and is widely used in greenhouse settings as well as for outdoor use. Steinernema scapterisci is used for control of mole crickets. Sources (Steinernema carpocapsae): 3, 7, 10, 13, 16, 18, 19, 22, 24, 29, 30, 33, 34, 36, 37, 42, 45, 46 Sources (Steinernema feltiae): 3, 4, 7, 9, 10, 11, 16, 19, 24, 29, 30, 33, 34, 35, 36, 37, 42, 44, 45, 46 Sources (Steinernema riobravo): 30 Sources (Steinernema scapterisci): 46 Sources (Unspecified Steinernema spp.): 1, 25, 27, 34, 40 Sources: (Unknown predatory nematodes): 15, 31 Nosema locustae/Grasshopper Spore. A microsporidian parasite of some grasshoppers, Nosema locustae, is sold as a bait formulation. It produces a fairly slow developing infection that weakens insects and usually kills them when they are molting. Adult insects are unlikely to be affected. The spores are perishable and should be used fairly soon after manufacture and/or stored with some refrigeration. M&R Durango produces the NoLo bait formulation; Semaspore is produced by Planet Natural. Sources: 3, 10, 16, 23, 24, 29, 31, 34, 35, 37 Beauveria bassiana. Beauveria bassiana is a naturally occurring fungus disease that affects a very wide range of insects - including aphids, whiteflies, psyllids, billbugs and caterpillars. Environmental conditions, particularly humidity, seem critical for the applied spores to successfully germinate and infect insects. Newly infected insects often are somewhat light brown; when the fungus sporulates it covers the class=Section5> insect with white spores. Available formulations are sold as Mycotrol and Naturalis. Sources: 16, 37 Insect Viruses. The commercial availability of viruses to control insects is new and they do not yet appear to be distributed through the sources of this survey. However, they can be acquired by direct contact of the manufacturers. Two present manufacturers include Certis USA (www.certisusa.com) and BioTEPP (www.biotepp.com) and three viruses are distributed. All are allowed for use in certified organic production (OMRI listed). Codling moth Granulosis virus: CYD-X (Certis USA), Virosoft (BioTEPP) NPV virus of Heliothis/Helicoverpa: Gemstar LC (Certis USA) NPV virus of Spodoptera: Spod-X (Certis USA) Commercially Available Biological Control Organisms -Organization by Associated Pest Groups Biological control is always only one component of any Integrated Pest Management program. However, the following commercially available organisms may have some application for the following pest groups. The headings used refer to organisms, or groups of organisms, described in the above section. Pest Group Potentially Useful Biological Controls Aphids Convergent Lady Beetle/Lady beetles, Twospotted Lady Beetle, Green Lacewings, Aphid Predator Midge, Pirate Bugs, Big-eyed Bug, Predatory Plant Bug, Aphid Parasites, Beauveria bassiana Whiteflies Whitefly Predator, Green Lacewings, Pirate Bugs, Greenhouse Whitefly Parasite, Sweetpotato Whitefly Parasite, Beauveria bassiana Mealybugs Mealybug Destroyer, Green Lacewings, Mealybug Parasites Armored Scales Scale Predators, Green Lacewings, Armored Scale Parasite/Golden Chalcid Soft Scales Scale Predators, Green Lacewings, Soft Scale Parasite Thrips Thrips Predators/Predatory Mites, Pirate Bugs, Sixspotted Thrips, Soil Predator Mite, Parasitic (Predatory) Nematodes/Steinernema spp., Fungus Gnat Predator Spider Mites Spider Mite Destroyer, Spider Mite Predator Midge, Sixspotted Thrips, Spider Mite Predators/Predatory Mites, Pirate Bugs Leaf Beetles Green Lacewings, Spined Soldier Bug, Predatory Plant Bug, Bacillus thuringiensis var. san diego, Beauveria bassiana Mexican Bean Green Lacewings, Predatory Plant Bug, Mexican Bean Beetle Parasite, Beetle Spined Soldier Bug Caterpillars Green Lacewings, Pirate Bugs, Predatory Plant Bug, Spined Soldier Bug, Trichogramma Wasps, Caterpillar Parasites, Bacillus thuringiensis var. kurstaki, Insect Viruses Leafminers Leafminer Parasites White Grubs Parasitic (Predatory) Nematodes/Heterorhabditis spp. Grasshoppers Nosema locustae/Grasshopper Spore, Chinese mantid Fungus Gnats Soil Predator Mite, Bacillus thuringiensis var. israelensis, Parasitic (Predatory) Nematodes/Steinernema spp. Mosquitoes Bacillus thuringiensis var. israelensis Flies (Nuisance) Fly Parasites (Fly Predators) Sources US and Canada Suppliers of Biological Controls for Insects and Mites 1. A-1 Unique Insect Control 5504 Sperry Drive Citrus Heights, CA 95621 Phone: (916) 961-7945 Fax: (916) 967-7082 Email: ladybugs@a-1unique.com Web site: www.a-1unique.com 2. American Insectaries, Inc. 243 S. Escondido Blvd., #318 Escondido, CA 92025 Phone (760) 747-2920 Fax: (760) 498-0353 Email: betterbugs@cox.net Web site: www.betterbugs.com 3. ARBICO Organics P.O. Box 8910 Tucson, AZ 85738-0910 Phone: (800) 827-2847 Email: info@arbico.com Web site: http://www.arbico-organics.com 4. The Beneficial Insect Co. P.O. Box 119 Glendale Springs, NC 28629 Phone: (336) 973-8490 Email: jimkluttz@thebugfarm.com Web site: www.thebeneficialinsectco.com 5. Beneficial Insectary 9664 Tanqueray Ct. Redding, CA 96003 Phone: (530) 226-6300/(800) 477-3715 Fax: (530) 226-6310/(888) 472-0708 Email: bi@insectary.com Web site: www.insectary.com 6. Biofac Crop Care P.O. Box 87 Mathis, TX 78368 Phone: (800) 233-4914 Email: info@biofac.com Web site: www.biofac.com 7. BioLogic Company P.O. Box 177 Willow Hill, PA 17271 Phone: (717) 349-2789 Email: reply@biologicco.com Web site: www.biologicco.com 8. Biotactics, Inc. 25139 Briggs Rd. Romoland, CA 92585 Phone: (951) 928-0215 Fax: (951) 928-2041 Email: sales@benemite.com Web site: www.benemite.com 9. The Bug Factory, Ltd. 1636 E. Island Highway Nanoose Bay, BC V9P 9A5 Canada Phone: (250) 468-7912 Fax: (250) 468-9484 Email: ahale@thebugfactory.ca Web site: www.thebugfactory.ca 10. Buglogical Control Systems P.O. Box 32046 Tucson, AZ 85751-2046 Phone/Fax: (520) 298-4400 Email: info@buglogical.com Web site: www.buglogical.com 11. Crop King 5050 Greenwich Road Seville, OH 44273-9413 Phone: (800) 321-5656 Email: cropking@cropking.com Web site: www.cropking.com 12. Evergreen Grower �s Supply 17592 South Palmer Road Oregon City, OR 97045 Phone: (503) 522-0879 Email: sales@evergreengrowers.com Web site: www.evergreengrowers.com 13. Extremely Green Gardening Company P.O Box 2021 Abington, MA 02351 Phone: (781) 878-5397 Fax: (781) 878-5582 Email: info@extremelygreen.com Web site: www.extremelygreen.com 14. Gardener's Supply Co. 128 Intervale Rd. Burlington, VT Phone: (888) 833-1412 Email: info@gardeners.com Web site: www.gardeners.com 15. Gardens Alive! 5100 Schenley Pl. Lawrenceburg, IN 47025 Phone: (513) 354-1482 Email: gardener@gardens-alive.com Web site: www.gardensalive.com 16. Great Lakes IPM, Inc. 10220 Church Road Vestaburg, MI 48891-9746 Phone: (989) 268-5693/ (800) 235-0285 Fax: (989) 268-5311 Email: glipm@nethawk.com Web site: www.greatlakesipm.com 17. Greenfire 2725 A Hwy 32 W. Chico CA 95973 Phone: (800) 895-830 Fax: (530) 895-8317 Email: info@greenfire.net Web site: www.greenfire.net 18. Green Home 850 24th Ave. San Francisco, CA 94121 Phone: (877) 282-6400 Email: help@greenhome.com Web site: www.GreenHome.com 19. Green Spot Ltd./Green Methods Beneficial Insectary Inc. 9664 Tanqueray Ct. Redding, CA 96003 Telephone: 530.226.6300 or toll-free: 800.477.3715 Fax: 530.226.6310 or toll-free: 888.472.0708 Email: Info@GreenMethods.com Web site: www.GreenMethods.com 20. Heath's Organic Pest Control, Greenhouse, and Nursery Rte 18 #750 Sugar Hill, NH 03585 Phone: (603) 823-8500 Email: heaths@ncia.net Web site: www.EcoBugs.com 21. Harmony Farm Supply & Nursery 3244 Hwy. 116 North Sebastopol, CA 95472 Phone: (707) 823-9125 Fax: (707) 823-1734 Email: info@harmonyfarm.com Web site: www.harmonyfarm.com 22. Hummert International 4500 Earth City Expressway Earth City, MO 63045 Phone: (800) 325-3055 Email: sales@hummert.com Web site: www.Hummert.com 23. Hydro-Gardens P.O. Box 25845 Colorado Springs, CO 80936-5845 Phone: (888) 693-0578 Email: hgi@hydro-gardens.com Web site: www.hydro-gardens.com 24. IFM (Integrated Fertility Management) 1422 N. Miller St. Wenatchee, WA 98801 Phone: (800) 332-3179 Fax: (509) 662-6594 Email: phil@agrecology.com Web site: www.agrecology.com 25. International Technology Services, Inc. P.O. Box 75 Lafayette, CO 80026 Phone: (800) 375-1684 Email: rcg@greenhouseinfo.com Web site: www.intertechserv.com 26. IPM Laboratories, Inc. P.O. Box 300 980 Main Street Locke, NY 13092-0300 Phone: (315) 497-2063 Fax: (315) 497-3129 Email: ipminfo@ipmlabs.com Web site: www.ipmlabs.com 27. Koppert Biological Systems 28465 Beverly Rd. Romulus, MI 48174 Phone: (734) 641-3763 Email: asktheexpert@koppertonline.com Web site: www.koppertonline.com/home.asp 28. Kunafin Trichogramma Insectaries Rte. 1 Box 190 Quemado, TX 78877-0190 Phone: (800) 832-1113 Fax: (830) 757-1468 Email: office@unafin.com Web site: www.kunafin.com 29. M & R Durango, Inc. Insectary P.O. Box 886 Bayfield, CO 81122 Phone: (970) 259-3521/(800) 526-4075 Fax: (970) 259-3857 Email: mail@goodbug.com Web site: www.goodbug.com 30. Nature Insect Control (NIC) 3737 Netherby Rd. Stevensville, Ontario LOS, 1SO Canada Phone: (905) 382-2904 Fax: (905) 382-4418 Email: nic@niagara.com Web site: www.natural-insect-control.com 31. Natural Pest Controls 8864 Little Creek Drive Orangevale, CA 95662 Phone: (916) 726-0855 Email: info@natpestco.com Web site: www.natpestco.com 32. Nature's Control 3960 Jacksonville Hwy. P.O. Box 35 Medford, OR 97501 Phone: (541) 245-6033 Fax: (800) 698-6250 Email: info@NaturesControl.com Web site: www.naturescontrol.com 33. Park Seed Co. 2 Parkton Av. Greenwood, SC 29647 Phone: (800) 845-3366 Fax: (800) 209-0360 Email: lmurray@parkwholesale.com Web site: www.parkwholesale.com 34. Peaceful Valley Farm Supply P.O. 2209 Grass Valley, CA 95945 Phone: (530) 272-4769/(888) 784-1722 Email: helpdesk@groworganic.com Web site: www.groworganic.com 35. Planet Natural 1612 Gold Ave. Bozeman, MT 59715 Phone: (800) 289-6656/(406) 587-5891 Fax: (406) 587-0223 Email: info@plantenatural.com Web site: www.planetnatural.com 36. Plant Products Co. Ltd. 6299 Meadowsweet Av. NW Canton, OH 44718 Phone/Fax: (330) 966-0234 Email: sgraham@plantprod.com Web site: www.plantprod.com 37. Rincon-Vitova Insectaries, Inc. P.O. Box 1555 Ventura, CA 93022‑1555 Phone: (800) 248-2847 Fax: (805) 643-6267 Email: bugnet@rinconvitova.com Web site: www.rinconvitova.com 38. Spalding Laboratories 760 Printz Road Arroyo Grande, CA 93420 Phone: (888) 880-1579 Fax: (866) 738-9632 Web site: www.spalding-labs.com 39. Sterling Insectary 30787 Perkins Ave. McFarland, CA 93253 Phone: (661) 792-6810 Fax: (661) 792-6880 Email: kim@sterlinginsectary.com Web site: www.sterlinginsectary.com 40. Syngenta Bioline, Inc. P.O. Box 2430 Oxnard, CA 93034-2430 (wholesale distributor only) Phone: (805) 986-8265 Email: dcahn@syngentabioline.com Web site: www.syngentabioline.com 41. Territorial Seed Company P.O. Box 158 Cottage Grove, OR 97424-0061 Phone: (800) 626-0866 Fax: (888) 657-3131 Email: tertri@territorial-seed.com Web site: www.territorial-seed.com 42. Tip Top Bio-Control P.O. Box 7614 Westlake Village, CA 91359 Phone: (800) 525.0004 Fax: (905) 482-7846 Email: tiptopbio@yahoo.com Web site: www.tiptopbio.com 43 Applied Bio-Nomics 11074 W. Saanich Rd. Sidney, BC V8L 5P5 Canada Phone: (250) 656-2123/(877) 656-2123 Fax: (250) 656-3844 Email: brianabl@telus.net Website: www.appliedbionomics.ca (under construction) 44. EcoSolutions, Inc. 2948 Landmark Way Palm Harbor, FL 34684 Phone/Fax: (727) 787-3669 Email: ecosolutions@mindspring.com Website: www.ecosolutions.com 45. Biobest Biological Systems 2020 Fox Run Rd. Leamington, ON N8H 3V7 Canada Phone: (519) 322-2178 Fax: (519) 322-1271 Email: info@biobest.ca Website: www.biobest.ca 46. Becker Underwood 801 Dayton Ave. Ames. IA 50010 Phone: (515) 232-5907 Fax: (515) 817-0722 Email: info.us@beckerunderwood.com Website: www.beckerunderwood.com Another source of lists of biological control suppliers is the Association of Natural Biological Control Producers. The web site address is: ANBP.org Categories: Biological Controls, Insects, Mites