The Swirski-Mite Revolution: A Game-Changer in Pest Control
Whiteflies are among the most persistent and damaging pests in commercial horticulture and greenhouse production. Their rapid reproduction, resistance to chemical pesticides, and ability to transmit plant viruses make them a serious threat to crop yield and quality. However, integrating biological control with predatory mites offers a highly effective, sustainable, and commercially viable strategy.
Whitefly impact on crops
Whiteflies, particularly Trialeurodes vaporariorum (Greenhouse whitefly) and Bemisia tabaci (Tobacco whitefly), thrive in warm, humid environments like greenhouses and covered growing environments. These pests feed on plant sap and excrete honeydew, promoting sooty mold growth. Their high fecundity and mobility make early detection and integrated pest management (IPM) essential.
Biological control of whiteflies with predatory mites
Predatory mites are natural enemies of whitefly eggs and larvae. They form the cornerstone of many successful IPM programs, supporting productivity, healthier crops and reducing chemical input.
Key benefits of using predatory mites
- Targeted action: they target specifically on whitefly eggs and larvae
- No side effects: a natural solution without harm to other natural enemies or pollinators.
- No resistance development: unlike chemical pesticides, pests do not develop resistance to natural predators.
- No residue: supporting growers to meet residue requirements or organic certification standards.
- Compatibility: easily combined with other biological and soft chemical tools in an IPM program.
Koppert: expert in predatory mite solutions
Koppert offers solutions for both preventive and curative applications in crops such as cucumber, pepper, eggplant, strawberry, and ornamentals. Each predatory mite species has unique strengths tailored to different climates and crop needs.
Amblyseius swirskii
Amblyseius swirskii targets whitefly eggs and young larvae, as well as thrips larvae and other small insects and mites. It originates from mediterranean region and therefore establishes fast in warm and moderate to high humid environments. It is available in multiple carriers tailored to different growing environments and circumstances: bottle, bulk, or sachets.
Amblydromalus limonicus
Amblydromalus limonicus is a generalist predatory mite feeding on whiteflies, thrips and other small insects and mites. It feeds on eggs, crawlers and larvae of whiteflies and has a big appetite compared to other predatory mites. Furthermore, it has a high reproduction capacity, performs well in moderate and colder temperatures and can handle high humidity. The predatory mites have a somewhat higher sensitivity to chemical pesticides.
Transeius montdorensis
The predatory mite Transeius montdorensis is a versatile predator, effective against a broad spectrum of small pests, including whiteflies and thrips. It originates from tropical and subtropical regions and therefore thrives in these conditions.
A predatory mite solution for each growing environment
We offer an expanded portfolio to suit every crop and condition:
Bottles
Bottles with dosing caps for quick and easy manual application - ideal for hot spots and fast pest response. Also suitable for distribution via application technology as blowers or drones.
Slow-release sachets
Paper sachets containing mites, food, and carrier - great for gradual, continuous release in greenhouses.
Ulti-Mite sachets
For biological control in suboptimal circumstances. Made of industrially compostable foil, offering superior protection against moisture and drying out.
Predatory mite solutions
Limonica
Montdo Ulti-Mite
Montdo-Mite
Montdo-Mite Plus
Swirski Ulti-Mite
Swirski-Mite
Swirski-Mite LD
Swirski-Mite Plus
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Trusted worldwide since 1967
With Koppert’s predatory mites, commercial growers gain access to effective, environmentally sound, and residue-free solutions. By integrating our predatory mite solution in your IPM strategy, you can prevent outbreaks, enhance crop productivity and health, and ensure market compliance – without an impact on the environment and human health.
Koppert is the pioneer in the development of predatory mite solutions, starting in 1967 with the production of the predatory mite Phytoseiulus persimilis. Over the years, we have further specialized in producing a big range of natural enemies and have several patents to our name. Our stability in breeding, quality, reliability, and secure delivery is well-known around the world. Our dedication and commitment to develop methods that enable growers to effectively introduce these solutions into their crops, ensuring optimal performance, is an integral part of our DNA.
What we can do for you and your crop
Whether you're just starting with biological control or looking to optimize your current IPM strategy, our global team of crop protection specialists is ready to help. Get in touch for tailored advice!
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