Explanation of the Side effects database
This database contains information about the side effects of pesticides on natural enemies and bumblebees. The information should be regarded as a guideline for the use of pesticides in combination with natural enemies and bumblebees under field conditions.If in doubt about any of the information, it is advisable to contact your crop advisor or a Koppert Consultant before applying the product in question.Only use chemicals registered for application. Always read the label before use.
Sources of information
The information is based on the results of the IOBC Working Group 'Pesticides and Beneficial Organisms' and various research institutes. More than one hundred scientific publications were included in the comparative literature study. Much of the data was also derived from our own research and the experiences of Koppert B.V. employees.
The data about the residual effects of the pesticides have been collected as much as possible from practical experience. For detailed information you can contact the Research & Development department of Koppert B.V.
Accuracy
This database will be updated regularly with the results of the latest research and practical experience.
Soon we will also have a possibility for the visitors of this site to update our database with their experiences.
Interpretation of data
- The data are based on a one-time application of the pesticide at the legal rate. If larger doses are used or if a product is used a number of times in succession, this can result in an increased effect on the natural enemies and bumblebees.
- Products which are listed as moderately harmful, or harmful, but which have a short residual effect can still be used for treatment of hot spots or prior to releasing natural enemies or bumblebees in the crop.
- The control capacity of Hypoaspis spp. and nematodes is mainly influenced by the application of chemical pesticides to the soil. Where soil application is not specifically mentioned, the effect is indicated in the section 'spray application'.
- Dusting of chemical pesticides hinders the development of natural enemies and bumblebees and is not advised.
Side effects on natural enemies
Categories
The effects of pesticides on natural enemies are classified into four categories, as established for semi-field tests by the IOBC Working Group 'Pesticides and Beneficial Organisms'.
Direct effects, such as mortality or non-hatching of eggs and pupae, have been taken into account as well as indirect effects, such as reduced fertility, problems with regard to moulting, repellency etc.
symbol/category | reduction in control capacity |
Harmless | < 25% |
Slightly harmful | 25 - 50% |
Moderately harmful | 50 - 75% |
Very harmful | 75% |
Effect unknown |
|
Residual effect (persistence)
Here the number of weeks is given during which the pesticide remains harmful to natural enemies. A natural enemy can only be successfully introduced after the stipulated time period.
The information on residual effects is especially valid for the conditions found in greenhouse crops in the northwest of Europe. Under warmer and lighter conditions, or in field crops, the residual effect is often shorter.
If there is no information on the residual effect, this is indicated by 
Side effects on bumblebees
Categories
The pesticides are arranged in four categories where the recommendations for handling are indicated.
No action
Cover
Close the fly-holes of all the hives at night, after the bumblebee flight has ended and before pesticides are applied. Cover each hive carefully. Remove the covering material after the treatment and re-open the fly-holes.
Remove
Close the fly-holes at night and remove the colonies from the greenhouse after the bumblebee flight has ended and before pesticides are applied. The colonies can be replaced in the greenhouse after the indicated residual time, when the crop is dry. Before the colonies are replaced the greenhouse should be thoroughly ventilated.
Incompatible
This category of pesticides cannot be used in combination with bumblebees.
Effect unknown
Residual effect (persistence)
This is indicated in days, during which time bumblebees have to be removed. Only after the indicated time period will the residue have broken down sufficiently such that the bumblebees will not be adversely affected. Bumblebee hives cannot be removed from the greenhouse for more than 2-3 days because the scarcity of pollen will result in the starvation of larvae. In that case, it will be necessary to start again with new hives.
The information on residual effects is especially appropriate for the conditions found in greenhouse cultures in northwestern Europe. Under warmer and lighter conditions or in field crops the residual effect is often shorter.
If there is no information on the residual effect this is indicated by 
Disclaimer
In this publication Koppert has presented the most accurate data about side effects on natural enemies and bumblebees as known at time of publication. When using pesticides, the legal directions should always be closely followed. Since the conditions of use of pesticides are outside our control, Koppert cannot guarantee that certain results will be achieved and cannot accept liability for any damaging consequences which may arise from the use of data presented in this publication.