Aphidius colemani is a parasitic wasp used against aphids, especially cotton aphid, red aphid and green peach aphid. Adults are black in colour. All other stages develop in the host.

Life cycle and efficacy

The adult parasitizes the aphid by puncturing it with its ovipositor and then depositing an egg in it. The larval stages develop in the host. The parasitized aphid then swells and solidifies into a leathery gray- or brown mummy. The adult parasitic wasp exits the mummy at the rear, leaving a round hole behind. About 2 weeks after release, the first mummies can be observed in the crop. Aphidius colemani is particularly effective for early aphid infestations. 

Introduction and dosage

At higher temperatures (above 30ºC) the activity of this parasitic wasp decreases significantly; especially in late spring and summer. Hyper-parasitization should also be taken into account. Therefore, check parasitization regularly with your advisor.
The material should be spread on the rockwool mat or in dosage boxes, then left for several days so that the mummies have time to hatch.

Packaging and contents

Bottle with 1,000 or 5,000 parasitic wasp pupae 

Carrier material: wood chips

Optimal storage conditions

The shelf life is 1 to 2 days, provided the bottles are stored horizontally in the dark, at a temperature of 8ºC to 10°C degrees.