Thrips remain a persistent challenge in protected horticulture. Emerging species like Thrips parvispinus, Scirtothrips dorsalis, along with established ones such as Frankliniella occidentalis, Thrips tabaci and Echinothrips americanus, continue to cause damage and spread viruses. As chemical control becomes less viable, biological solutions like predatory mites are taking center stage. One predatory mite is showing exceptional promise: Limonica.
Why Limonica?
Limonica (Amblydromalus limonicus) is a predatory mite that feeds on a wide range of pests, including thrips (both first and second instar larvae), whitefly eggs and nymphs, and, to some extent, spider mites. Its versatility and high predation rate make it a valuable tool in integrated pest management (IPM) programs.
Field results and performance
Limonica has proven particularly effective in ornamentals and vegetables:
- Thrips parvispinus: Trials by Koppert Spain show Limonica outperforms other predatory mite species in controlling this aggressive thrips species.
- Scirtothrips dorsalis: Known for its rapid spread and damage to peppers and strawberries, this species is well-targeted by Limonica due to its ability to feed on second instar larvae.
- Frankliniella occidentalis: Limonica significantly reduces populations, especially when supported with supplemental feeding.
A. limonicus egg laying and predation capacity on T. parvispinus larvae
A. limonicus egg laying and predation capacity on S. dorsalis larvae
Key advantages of Limonica
- Effective at a broad temperature range, allowing winter and summer introduction.
- High reproductive capacity and fast population build-up.
- Strong mobility and adaptability in covered crops.
These traits enable Limonica to establish early and exert pressure on thrips populations before they peak.
The potential of Limonica against other thrips
Although most data currently focuses on T. parvispinus and S. dorsalis, Limonica’s biology suggests potential effectiveness against:
- Dichromothrips corbetti (Vanda thrips)
- Chaetanaphothrips orchidii (anthurium thrips)
- Other emerging species in global trade
Further trials are needed to confirm its efficacy across different crops and climates.
Amblydromalus limonicus
Strengths and considerations
“What makes Limonica stand out is its ability to establish quickly and target both first and second instar thrips larvae, even when temperatures are on the cooler side,” explains Sarra Bouagga, Researcher at Koppert Spain. “We’ve seen it thrive especially well between 20 and 25°C, with increased egg-laying and feeding activity, but what truly sets Limonica apart from other predatory mites is that it continues to be effective even when temperatures fall below or rise above that range. That said, it’s important to keep in mind that the hatching rate of Limonica eggs is low in hot, dry conditions or when humidity drops below 65%, so those factors really need to be considered when planning your IPM strategy.”
Integration into IPM
For best results, Limonica should be introduced preventively, supported by supplemental feeding (e.g., prey mites) and compatible biocontrol agents like, in case of sweet pepper, Orius laevigatus.
As new thrips species continue to challenge growers worldwide, the need for effective and sustainable control strategies is more urgent than ever. Limonica stands out as a highly performing predatory mite, capable of targeting multiple thrips species and life stages. While further research is needed to expand its use across crops and climates, current evidence supports its first place position in modern IPM programs.
