CA2455156C - System for providing beneficial insects or mites - Google Patents
System for providing beneficial insects or mites Download PDFInfo
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- CA2455156C CA2455156C CA002455156A CA2455156A CA2455156C CA 2455156 C CA2455156 C CA 2455156C CA 002455156 A CA002455156 A CA 002455156A CA 2455156 A CA2455156 A CA 2455156A CA 2455156 C CA2455156 C CA 2455156C
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- Prior art keywords
- mites
- compartment
- insects
- beneficial insects
- folded
- Prior art date
- Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
- Expired - Lifetime
Links
- 241000238876 Acari Species 0.000 title claims abstract description 85
- 241000238631 Hexapoda Species 0.000 title claims abstract description 78
- 230000009286 beneficial effect Effects 0.000 title claims abstract description 48
- 241000607479 Yersinia pestis Species 0.000 claims abstract description 25
- XLYOFNOQVPJJNP-UHFFFAOYSA-N water Substances O XLYOFNOQVPJJNP-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 claims description 36
- 239000000463 material Substances 0.000 claims description 23
- 239000000123 paper Substances 0.000 claims description 16
- 229920000573 polyethylene Polymers 0.000 claims description 12
- 235000013305 food Nutrition 0.000 claims description 11
- 239000000203 mixture Substances 0.000 claims description 11
- 238000000034 method Methods 0.000 claims description 9
- 238000009472 formulation Methods 0.000 claims description 7
- 241001414989 Thysanoptera Species 0.000 claims description 6
- 238000009395 breeding Methods 0.000 claims description 6
- 230000001488 breeding effect Effects 0.000 claims description 6
- 229920001169 thermoplastic Polymers 0.000 claims description 5
- 239000004416 thermosoftening plastic Substances 0.000 claims description 5
- 241001455175 Neoseiulus cucumeris Species 0.000 claims description 3
- 239000002655 kraft paper Substances 0.000 claims description 3
- 241000927584 Frankliniella occidentalis Species 0.000 claims 2
- 241000611866 Tyrophagus putrescentiae Species 0.000 claims 2
- 241000196324 Embryophyta Species 0.000 description 12
- 241000132125 Tyrophagus Species 0.000 description 6
- 239000000126 substance Substances 0.000 description 5
- 244000062645 predators Species 0.000 description 4
- 241000894007 species Species 0.000 description 4
- 235000013311 vegetables Nutrition 0.000 description 4
- 240000008415 Lactuca sativa Species 0.000 description 3
- 235000012045 salad Nutrition 0.000 description 3
- 241000406588 Amblyseius Species 0.000 description 2
- 239000004698 Polyethylene Substances 0.000 description 2
- 241000261594 Tyrophagus longior Species 0.000 description 2
- 244000038559 crop plants Species 0.000 description 2
- 230000000694 effects Effects 0.000 description 2
- 238000003973 irrigation Methods 0.000 description 2
- 230000002262 irrigation Effects 0.000 description 2
- 239000004922 lacquer Substances 0.000 description 2
- 239000000575 pesticide Substances 0.000 description 2
- 229920003023 plastic Polymers 0.000 description 2
- 239000004033 plastic Substances 0.000 description 2
- -1 polyethylene Polymers 0.000 description 2
- 229910052902 vermiculite Inorganic materials 0.000 description 2
- 235000019354 vermiculite Nutrition 0.000 description 2
- 239000010455 vermiculite Substances 0.000 description 2
- 241000934067 Acarus Species 0.000 description 1
- 241000934064 Acarus siro Species 0.000 description 1
- 244000060011 Cocos nucifera Species 0.000 description 1
- 235000013162 Cocos nucifera Nutrition 0.000 description 1
- 229920000544 Gore-Tex Polymers 0.000 description 1
- 206010061217 Infestation Diseases 0.000 description 1
- 240000008881 Oenanthe javanica Species 0.000 description 1
- 235000000365 Oenanthe javanica Nutrition 0.000 description 1
- 101150033538 Rala gene Proteins 0.000 description 1
- 101150058845 SYNRG gene Proteins 0.000 description 1
- 240000004808 Saccharomyces cerevisiae Species 0.000 description 1
- 241000365764 Scirtothrips dorsalis Species 0.000 description 1
- 241000339374 Thrips tabaci Species 0.000 description 1
- 241001623052 Tropicus Species 0.000 description 1
- 238000013270 controlled release Methods 0.000 description 1
- 230000003247 decreasing effect Effects 0.000 description 1
- 239000004744 fabric Substances 0.000 description 1
- 244000037666 field crops Species 0.000 description 1
- 239000003292 glue Substances 0.000 description 1
- 125000001475 halogen functional group Chemical group 0.000 description 1
- 230000005764 inhibitory process Effects 0.000 description 1
- 239000011159 matrix material Substances 0.000 description 1
- 239000003595 mist Substances 0.000 description 1
- 235000015097 nutrients Nutrition 0.000 description 1
- 230000002265 prevention Effects 0.000 description 1
- 239000004576 sand Substances 0.000 description 1
- GABUSZPTCJGKGB-UHFFFAOYSA-M sodium;4-(4-chloro-2-methylphenoxy)butanoate Chemical compound [Na+].CC1=CC(Cl)=CC=C1OCCCC([O-])=O GABUSZPTCJGKGB-UHFFFAOYSA-M 0.000 description 1
- 230000004083 survival effect Effects 0.000 description 1
Classifications
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A01—AGRICULTURE; FORESTRY; ANIMAL HUSBANDRY; HUNTING; TRAPPING; FISHING
- A01K—ANIMAL HUSBANDRY; AVICULTURE; APICULTURE; PISCICULTURE; FISHING; REARING OR BREEDING ANIMALS, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR; NEW BREEDS OF ANIMALS
- A01K67/00—Rearing or breeding animals, not otherwise provided for; New or modified breeds of animals
- A01K67/033—Rearing or breeding invertebrates; New breeds of invertebrates
Landscapes
- Life Sciences & Earth Sciences (AREA)
- Environmental Sciences (AREA)
- Animal Behavior & Ethology (AREA)
- Zoology (AREA)
- Animal Husbandry (AREA)
- Biodiversity & Conservation Biology (AREA)
- Catching Or Destruction (AREA)
- Agricultural Chemicals And Associated Chemicals (AREA)
Abstract
The present invention relates to the field of insect and mite control. Specifically, it relates to the use of beneficial insects or mites for the control of phytophagous insect and mite pests, and a system for providing beneficial insects or mites.
Description
-1_ sYST.s F P ovnan~G rc n~rs cTS o The present invention relates to the field of insect and mite control.
Specifically, it relates to the use of beneficial insects or mites for the control ofphytophagous insect and mite pests, and a system for providing beneficial insects or mites.
Plant pests are a major .thctor in the loss of the world's important agricultural crops.
About $8 billion is lost every yeax in the TJ.S. due to infestations of plants by non-manimalian pests including insects. Jxi addition to lasses in field crops, insect pests are also a burden to vegetable and fi~uit growers, to producers of ornamental flowers, and to home gardeners. Far example, pest tlztips such as Frankdiniedda occid'e~tadis and 2'hrips tahaci cause extensive damage to horticultural crops such as salad vegetables, cut flowers and ornamental plants, resulting in significant economic loss to tha growers.
1 s Insect pests are mainly controlled by intensive applieations of chemical pesticides, which are active through inhibition ofinsBCt growth, prevention of insect feeding ar reproduction, or cause death. .AltlLOUgh the use of such chemicals can result in good control of insect pests, the widespread use of chemical pesticides can result in the appearance of resistant insect varieties. Further, high levels of chemicals on horticultural zo crops, in particular salad vegetables, is undesirable to many consumers.
Therefore, there exists an alternative method of pset control involving the use of beneficial insects or mites. Said beneficial insects or mites are predatory towards pest insects such as thrips, and can be applied to crops to control inseot pests.
Beneficial 2s insects or mites may be provided to cmp plants in. a variety of ways, for example manually or through a controlled release device. The use of bene$cial insects or mites forms part of Integrated Crvlr Management and Integrated Pest Maxxagemcnt programs, combining cultural, biological axed chemical means to achieve sustainable pest oantrol.
3o One example of a beneficial irxsect or mite system is the use of.~lmblyseius cucumerxs as a predatory mite for the control of pest thrips. F,xisting Systems involve the mite being provided either loose in bran and vermiculite far sprinkling onto crops, or in sachets for longer periods of pmtoction. Amblyseaus cucumeris feed on iC~rst instar thrip9 larvae, arid 30584-3(S)
Specifically, it relates to the use of beneficial insects or mites for the control ofphytophagous insect and mite pests, and a system for providing beneficial insects or mites.
Plant pests are a major .thctor in the loss of the world's important agricultural crops.
About $8 billion is lost every yeax in the TJ.S. due to infestations of plants by non-manimalian pests including insects. Jxi addition to lasses in field crops, insect pests are also a burden to vegetable and fi~uit growers, to producers of ornamental flowers, and to home gardeners. Far example, pest tlztips such as Frankdiniedda occid'e~tadis and 2'hrips tahaci cause extensive damage to horticultural crops such as salad vegetables, cut flowers and ornamental plants, resulting in significant economic loss to tha growers.
1 s Insect pests are mainly controlled by intensive applieations of chemical pesticides, which are active through inhibition ofinsBCt growth, prevention of insect feeding ar reproduction, or cause death. .AltlLOUgh the use of such chemicals can result in good control of insect pests, the widespread use of chemical pesticides can result in the appearance of resistant insect varieties. Further, high levels of chemicals on horticultural zo crops, in particular salad vegetables, is undesirable to many consumers.
Therefore, there exists an alternative method of pset control involving the use of beneficial insects or mites. Said beneficial insects or mites are predatory towards pest insects such as thrips, and can be applied to crops to control inseot pests.
Beneficial 2s insects or mites may be provided to cmp plants in. a variety of ways, for example manually or through a controlled release device. The use of bene$cial insects or mites forms part of Integrated Crvlr Management and Integrated Pest Maxxagemcnt programs, combining cultural, biological axed chemical means to achieve sustainable pest oantrol.
3o One example of a beneficial irxsect or mite system is the use of.~lmblyseius cucumerxs as a predatory mite for the control of pest thrips. F,xisting Systems involve the mite being provided either loose in bran and vermiculite far sprinkling onto crops, or in sachets for longer periods of pmtoction. Amblyseaus cucumeris feed on iC~rst instar thrip9 larvae, arid 30584-3(S)
- 2 -control relies on complete cover of a crop with the predator before thrips establish.
Repeated sprinkling of the predator over crops is labour intensive, wasteful and messy as much of the bran falls on the floor or gets stuck on the leaves. Establishment on crops is relatively slow, and therefore the existing sachet products were designed as an improved method of release.
The existing sachet products provide a continuous release of Amblyseius cucumeris for several weeks by maintaining a breeding population of the mite with a food source in the form of a grain mite (Tyrophagus spp:). The mites are contained in a bran matrix, with or without vermiculite. The breeding colony is maintained in a sachet manufactured from high grade paper-polythene, and a hook is attached to the sachet for placement onto plants, or onto wires used to support the crop. Mites emerge from the sachet onto the crop through a small perforation in the sachet, the emergence hole.
t 5 There are several problems with the existing sachet products. In some growing systems, water or nutrient solutions are provided to plants through overhead irrigation systems, usually mist or sprinkler systems. In other growing systems, crops are grown under shade netting and natural rainfall wets the crop. In existing sachets, water can enter the sachet such that the contents become wet, the mites cease to breed, and the sachet life is therefore reduced considerably. For example, water enters the sachet through the emergence hole. Also, water collects on the seals on the outside of the sachet and is drawn into the sachet through capillary action along paper fibres. Another problem with existing sachets is that the hook becomes wet, distorts, and allows the sachet to fall to the ground. Further problems with existing sachets include a variable rate of release of beneficial mites, and a low overall release rate. This is a particular problem in wet conditions.
The present invention describes a new system for providing beneficial insects or mites which overcomes these problems.
According to the present invention, there is provided a system suitable for providing beneficial insects or mites in a protected cropping environment, comprising at least two strips of water resistant film material of approximately the same size, one overlaid on the other, sealed 30584-3(S)
Repeated sprinkling of the predator over crops is labour intensive, wasteful and messy as much of the bran falls on the floor or gets stuck on the leaves. Establishment on crops is relatively slow, and therefore the existing sachet products were designed as an improved method of release.
The existing sachet products provide a continuous release of Amblyseius cucumeris for several weeks by maintaining a breeding population of the mite with a food source in the form of a grain mite (Tyrophagus spp:). The mites are contained in a bran matrix, with or without vermiculite. The breeding colony is maintained in a sachet manufactured from high grade paper-polythene, and a hook is attached to the sachet for placement onto plants, or onto wires used to support the crop. Mites emerge from the sachet onto the crop through a small perforation in the sachet, the emergence hole.
t 5 There are several problems with the existing sachet products. In some growing systems, water or nutrient solutions are provided to plants through overhead irrigation systems, usually mist or sprinkler systems. In other growing systems, crops are grown under shade netting and natural rainfall wets the crop. In existing sachets, water can enter the sachet such that the contents become wet, the mites cease to breed, and the sachet life is therefore reduced considerably. For example, water enters the sachet through the emergence hole. Also, water collects on the seals on the outside of the sachet and is drawn into the sachet through capillary action along paper fibres. Another problem with existing sachets is that the hook becomes wet, distorts, and allows the sachet to fall to the ground. Further problems with existing sachets include a variable rate of release of beneficial mites, and a low overall release rate. This is a particular problem in wet conditions.
The present invention describes a new system for providing beneficial insects or mites which overcomes these problems.
According to the present invention, there is provided a system suitable for providing beneficial insects or mites in a protected cropping environment, comprising at least two strips of water resistant film material of approximately the same size, one overlaid on the other, sealed 30584-3(S)
- 3 -together at their edges and further sealed together at least once at a point along at least one axis to form at least two substantially planar regions, at least one of which regions is a compartment separated by the further seal, wherein the said compartment comprises beneficial insects or mites, wherein the compartment comprising beneficial insects or mites comprises at least one emergence hole on one side of the compartment so that insects or mites can emerge, and wherein the system is capable of being folded to form an inverted V- or U- type conformation wherein the emergence hole or holes are thus located on the inside of the folded conformation, so that water cannot enter the comparhnent through the emergence hole or holes when the system is in said folded to conformation.
According to the present invention there is provided a system suitable for providing beneficial insects or mites in a protected cropping environment, comprising at least one strip of water resistant film material, folded along one edge, sealed together at the remaining edges, and further sealed at least once at a point along at least one axis to form at least two substantially planar regions, at least one of which regions is a compartment separated by the further seal, wherein the said compartment comprises beneficial insects or mites, wherein the compartments comprising beneficial insects or mites comprise at least one emergence hole on one side of the compartment so that insects or mites can emerge, and wherein the system is capable of being folded to form an inverted V- or U-type conformation wherein the emergence hole or holes are thus located on the inside of the folded conformation, so that water cannot enter the compartment through the emergence hole or holes when the system is in said inverted folded conformation.
In one embodiment of the present invention, at least one of the regions is in the form of a ballast to counter the weight of the said compartment comprising beneficial insects or mites.
In one embodiment of the present invention, the system is folded along said further seal 3o to form said inverted V- or U- type conformation. Alternatively, the system may be folded at a different position or in a different orientation to the further seal.
30584-3(S)
According to the present invention there is provided a system suitable for providing beneficial insects or mites in a protected cropping environment, comprising at least one strip of water resistant film material, folded along one edge, sealed together at the remaining edges, and further sealed at least once at a point along at least one axis to form at least two substantially planar regions, at least one of which regions is a compartment separated by the further seal, wherein the said compartment comprises beneficial insects or mites, wherein the compartments comprising beneficial insects or mites comprise at least one emergence hole on one side of the compartment so that insects or mites can emerge, and wherein the system is capable of being folded to form an inverted V- or U-type conformation wherein the emergence hole or holes are thus located on the inside of the folded conformation, so that water cannot enter the compartment through the emergence hole or holes when the system is in said inverted folded conformation.
In one embodiment of the present invention, at least one of the regions is in the form of a ballast to counter the weight of the said compartment comprising beneficial insects or mites.
In one embodiment of the present invention, the system is folded along said further seal 3o to form said inverted V- or U- type conformation. Alternatively, the system may be folded at a different position or in a different orientation to the further seal.
30584-3(S)
-4-According to the present invention there is provided a system suitable for providing beneficial insects or mites in a protected cropping environment, comprising at least two substantially planar regions joined together along one edge, at least one of which regions is a compartment; wherein the said compartment is formed from at least two strips of film material of approximately the same size, one overlaid on the other, and sealed together at their edges, or at least one strip of water resistant film material, folded along one edge, and sealed together at the remaining edges; wherein the said compartment comprises beneficial insects or mites; wherein the compartment comprising beneficial insects or mites comprise at least one emergence hole on one side of the compartment so 1o that insects or mites can emerge; and wherein the system is capable of being folded to form an inverted V- or U- type conformation wherein the emergence hole or holes are thus located on the inside of the folded conformation; so that water cannot enter the compartment through the emergence hole or holes when the system is in the said inverted folded conformation.
In one embodiment of the present invention, the said regions are substantially similar in size. The invention includes, but is not limited to regions which are identical in shape and size. In one aspect of the invention, there are two regions. In another aspect of the invention, both regions are compartments. In a further aspect of the invention, both 2o compartments comprise beneficial insects or mites. In a further aspect of the invention, there are at least two regions. In another aspect of the invention, each region is a compartment. In a further aspect of the invention, at least one of the regions is not a compartment.
The term 'protected cropping environment' refers to a variety of growing situations, including for example growing crops in greenhouses, plastic tunnels, glasshouses, shade-houses az~d other similar environments. However, the invention is not limited to use in such environments, but may alternatively be used outside, for example in a field.
3o The term 'film material' includes any material which is preferably water resistant and air permeable. In one aspect, the invention includes films such as paper, thermoplastic (such as polythene) and polythene-coated paper. Further examples of other suitable thin materials, include fabric coated with polythene, and goretex~. The film material must be ~uuate~r resistant to prevent water from entering the system, and permeable to allor~r gas exchange for survival of the insects or mites within the system. The water resistant property of the film material refers to an ability of the elm material to either repel or not absorb water. Yt include, but is not limited to mx~tcri2~ls which axe totally imp~.vious to water (watarproofj. Therefore, water applied to or falling oa the system will run off, rather than be absorbed into the film matarial. The film material ~ovill preferably be lightweight so that tha system can easily be hung front branches of plants v~rithout damaging them_ io The invention includes strips of Ifhn material which are any shape or size.
Typically, the strip of film will bo sectasrgular, for axample mcasuri~ag approximately 20cm by ~.Scm.
The term 'sealed' iucludas sealissg using glue, heat, tape, or fixing together by any other means. 1~or example, strips ofplastie-coated film material may be sealed using heat.
The emergence hole or holes are located in the inner i~ca of the folded conformation.
This is important so that, when the system is folded, water cannot entea the emergence halos dun to the 'umbrella' effect of the inverted V- or U- type coufiguratiou. The present invention iaeludes systems whioh comprise one or copra eurexgauce holes per 2o compartment. Ia one aspect of the invention, the emergence holes are located is the top half of the compartment when the system is in its inverted V- ar IT- type configuration.
In a further aspect of the invention. the holes are between approximately 0.5mm and 5mm in diameter. In one aspect of the invention, the holes are approximately imm in diameter. In another aspect of the invention, tho holes are approximately 2mm in diameter. Tn a ftwther asp~t of the invention, the holes are approximately ~mm is diameter.
prior art 'sachet' products have serrated seals ~xrhieh provide a series of ridges along tha edges of the sachet. Further. the process of making a serrated seal after causes the edges of the product to curl. The presence of said ridges and curls allows water to colleot on the outside of the sachet, and in time, the water wicks along paper fibres and the sachet contents become wet. This disrupts the micro-climate within the sachet, aazd therefore oar considerably shorten the life of the system. In one ~nbadiment of the present ru ., ..m,.u.c.r0. ~<;.~'r~.,..,.Y~r ,tux.. ,tttcx~ueevawc~.",.cifi.~~,r~sn.-Wewrap~xas~4~,~rFm~.~zfF9A~ad~,'v&n ~ '-.
invention, the regions are sealed along their edges using a substantially seamless seal so that water does not collect on the outside. In one aspect of the invention, the substantially seaualess seal is a flat seal. 2tre present invention also includes other types of seal which do not result in ridges, pockets or dips in which water could accumulate.
In one embodiment of tho present invention, the film material is paper coated with substantially water impermeable thermoplastic. Thin ftlrn material is both water resistant so that water rune off the system, and permeable to allow gas exchange. rn one aspect of the ia~rention, the thermoplastic is polythene with a density ofbetween 5 and 140 g/ma.
1n In another aspect of the invention, the polyCheue density is between 10 and 75 g/m2. Yn a further aspect of the invention, the polythene density is between 15 and SO
glm2, rn another aspect of the invcntiorl, the polythene density is approximately 20 g/ma.
The invention includes different film materials which may ba suitable for use in the ~ s system. For example, the film material may be paper, arid the iuventian includes different paper types suitable for use in. the system. In one aspect of the invention. the paper is machine glazed bleached kraft paper. bther suitable paper types include, for eeample, grid lacquer paper or medical paper. The paper density may be bctvv~een 1 o and 100 g/m2. For example, for blcarhal kraft paper, the density may be approximately 40 2o g/m2, and for grid lacquer papers the density may be approximately 60 g/mr.
The invention inclrxdes pap~r which is coated, far example with high density polythene, to ensure that it is water resistant.
In one embodiment of the present invention, the system is folded to form azl invV-25 or U- type conformation. This fold may be anywhere in the system, rn a preferred aspect of the invention, the fold is positioned. approximately centx~lly at a point along one axis, The invention is not limited to strict inverted V- or U- conformations, but includec systems which era capable of being folded into similar shapes, or an intermediate shape between V- and U- shaped. In one aspect elf the invention, the inverted V- or U- type 3o conformation is present at or around the position of the fold itself The sides of the system may optionally comprise further folds so that the overall configuration of the system does not closely resemble as inverted V- or U- type conformation, rn a fixrGtier aspect of the inventioxt, the aides of the system either side of the fold are different lengths .. .,. z .. .,3 .~ s ~. . _.w ~. < ._ . . , x, ~~~ ~,~~. .,~ro,~. w,. ~
~,~,~w,~~ ~..~:,~ r.~~,$~~~~~"~"~~~,r,P~e~ ""~. ~......m ea ~ ~,~ .
. 7 .
or sizes. In a still further aspect of the invention, the sides ofthe system either side of the fold are substantially similar in size. The present invention :i'urther includes regions which are constructed individually, and subsequently sealed together so that they may be folded into an inverted V or U- type conformation.
In another embodiment of the present invention, there are as equal aumbex of regions either side of the fold. The invention is not limited to a single region on either side of the fold, but encompasses systems comprising multiple regions. In one embodiment of the inv~aiion, the sides of the inverted V- ar U- type conformation are approximately equal ~o in weight. This enables the system to hang evenly when suspended from the fold. Zn one aspext of the invention, there must be substantially the same number of eouapartm~ts of substantially airuilar size and substantially similar weight either side ofthe fold. At least one of the regiane must be a aompartrnent which comprises beneficial insects or ruites -further regions, ho~ove~rer, may also be compartments and may comprise different insects i5 ar mites ar serve a different function such as simply serving as a counter balance. The invention also includes a system comprising, fbr example, two compartments whereon one of the compartments is empty.
In ono embodiment of the present invention, the fold takes the farm of an attachment 2o means which functions as a hook from which to hang said system. The system may, for example, be hooked over a branch of a plant, or over the ruriares used to support a crop, so that the sides of the inverted V- or U- type contbrmauon are either side of the branch or wire. Alternati.~rely, the system of the present fnvention may be freestanding, for example on the ground or pot in which the plant is growing.
Optionally, the system may comprise a further hook, for example made from plastic.
Such a further hook may be located at or near the fold and may, for example be used to hang the system ii»m branches where the leaves are close together so that hooking using the fold is difficult. Preferably, the system is less than 5cm in width so chat ft may easily 3o be hooked over the branches of plants between leaf nodes.
In on~ aspect of the present inwentioa, the system measures approximately 20crn in length and approximately ct.5am in width. If the system is folded is half with the fold in r.. . ~.a~, w. . * * ,.,.: n.~~ ~ . ~ m - g -the middle of the long axis, each compartment measures approximately l Ocm by approximately 4.5otn. The seals amat~nd the edges may measure approximately 5 to l0mm in ~uvidth. What in its folded conforraatioa, the fold itselfmay, for example, be between 1 axul l Omm iti width to accommodate branches cad wires of different thickness.
In a further embodiment of the present invention, there is provided a system as described in the preceding paragraphs, wherein the inverted V- or U- type conformation provides a stable microclimate, resulting in a steady release rate ofbeneficial insecrs or mites over approximately a 6 week period. 'Stahlc rriicroclima~ta' refers to a microclimatc in and to around the compartments of the system. which does not fluctuate in humidity and temaparatute ae much as prior art 'sachet' systems. A stable mieroclimate is important to ensure that'tbe colony of insects or azites continues to breed. Zn the preset invention, the microclirnate is stabilised due to the design and conformation of the System..
The °umbrella,' etlf'ect of the invertal V- or U- type conformation prevents water fmm is entering the compat9ment through the emergence holes, so that the humidity levels remain relatively constant. In one aspect of the present invention, the substantially scatnlcss seals of the regions prevent water collecting on the outside of the regions and therefore help maaataiu steady humidity levels, The greseuce of at least two regions is useful to reduce fluctuations in temperature, for example due to time of day or 2o positioai.ng relative to the sun.
The 'release rate' refers to the number ofbcncficial insects or mitts that arc released or emerge frrnm the cotapartmcnts over a period of time. A steady release rate refers to said rclaaae rate being approximately constant over approximately a 6 week period 2S commencisig when the system is put in use. For example, the release rate may be between approximately 200 and 300 insects or mites released each week_ Therefore a total of approximately 1500 insets or mites mar be released over approximately a 6 week period. A high release rate may be in the order of 700 insects or mites per week while a Iow release rate rRay be 50 insects or mites per week. prior art products typically so have a release rate which is not steady, but fluctuates over tfme, for exempla ranging from 100 mites per wa~k to ?50 mites per week.
..g_ Emergence of prey mites can be damaging to the crop plar~ts. Therefore au importaat feature of the inventian is the formulation in tine compartments. It is impartant to achieve the correct initial balance be~veeri predator and prey to ensure a plentiful and uniform emergence of Amblysetus cuestmet°ls without excessive emergence of Zyrophagus putreseentiae. Due to the conformation of the grescrrt irlvcntion, the rate of escape of prey mitts is sigaifxcautly reduced, therefore resulting in decreased damage to crop pleats. For example, typically greater tl~ 10,000, and often greater than 20,000 Tyrophag~ss escape fram prior art products over a 6 week period, while fewer than 10,000 ~~rrophasgus escape from the present system over the same time period.
to Iri one embodigtettt of the present invention, there is prvvidcd a system suitable for providing beneficial insects or mitts in a protected cropping envimtxment, wherein the beneficial insects yr miters ate xnaintain$d as a breeding population. In one aspect of the inv~tion, the oo~ztpartments comprise a food sourice for the beneficial insects or mites.
t S In a fiufiher aspect of the invention, the food source consists of prey insects or mites. In a further aspect of the invention, the compamnents fltrther camprise a food source for said prey insects or mites.
In one embodiment of the present invention, at least one compartment contains a 20 formulation eomprisiag viable Amblyseiu~ caeumerix, a predatory mite which may be used for the control of thrips such as Fra~skdiriiella occidentalis, and Thraps tabaci; viable grain or stored product pest mites; and bran_ The grai" or stored product pest mites may, for example be Tyrophagus spies such as 2~rophagus putrescentiae. Tyrophagus troptcus~, or another species such as Acaru~ sire. Alternatively, the grain or stored 25 product pest mitts zriay be a mixture of these two species. In sae aspect of the present invention, the grain or stored product pest mites are ?'yrophagees putre~srcenaiae. In one embodiment of the invention, the .Aanbly~seius cucur~seris and grain cu stored product pest mites are present is a ratio of approximately 1:10. This ratio of predatory mites to prey mites is important for maintaining a successtttl breeding population over a period of 6 30 weeks or longer. Iftoo few prey mites are presennt in the system, they will be eaten quickly by the predatory mitts, resulting is a high number of predatory mites being released over a short time period, and the system having a short life. In contrast, if too many prey mites ate present in the system, they may escape through the emergence - IO-hoie(s). This is undesirable since prey mites can cause damage to crop plants.
Therefore, the formulation is a key aspect of the present system for effective pest control.
Tn one aspect of the invention, at least one compartment comprises a formulation consisting of 1 Amblyseius cucunaeris for every 10 Tyrophagsss putr,ascentiae and O.SZg ofprey food mix. The prey food mix rnay be made with steamed bran and a 3:I
mix of yeast and wheatgarm. Y,n one embodiment of the invention, the formulation is split equally between two or more compartments.
1'he invention also includes other types of beneficial insects and mites which are capable of being maintainai as a breeding colony. Iu particular, the invention ineludea other species of Am~51'yseius~. Further, the invention is not limit~d to the use of f~rophagus putrescentaae as a food source, but includes other species of Tyrophag~s, such as f "yrophagus tropicus, other mites such as Acarus siro, or at~y other insect or mite which i s the beneficial insect or mite could feed on. The invention further includes the use of as alternarive food source to grain mites. This is useful to reduce damage to crop plants caused by grain or stored. product pest mites which escape from the system.
In an tnabodiment of the present invention, theta is provided a system as described 2o above, comprising one region which is a compartment and a second region vVhich is a formed fxom a substantially plaxiar sheet, ~cxrherein said second region is appmximately the same weight as the first region when it is in the form of a filled compartment to act as a counterbalance. In one aspect of the invention, the sand region is not a compartment.
Yn a further aspect of the invcntivn, the second region is a ballast to act as a 2s countcrbalanco for the first region.
In one embodiment of the present invention, there is provided a method for providing a steady release rate of beneheial insects or mites comprising providing the beneficial insects or mites in a system as described above. In one embodiment of the present 3o invention, there is a method of controlling thzips in a pratcctcd cropping environment comprising providing s syste~rn suitable for providing beneficial insects or mites as described above. In one aspect of the invention, said method may be used to control 'W'estera Flower Thrips, Frankl'aniella occidentali~. The present invention is also suitable for the confirol of other thrip species, such as Thrips tabaci, in addition to other pest insets.
1n one cmbodimexlt of the prcsent invention, there is provided the uea of a syst~n as described about for the control of pest ixisecte on horticultural crops in a protected mopping enviromnent. Horticultural crops for which this invention may be used include, fur example, salad vegetables, cut flowers and ornamental plants.
to E~CAIVtpIaES
1. 'T'rala comparing the performance of the nave! system to existing cantrol~d rel~ase systeyn products in vvet eanditzons.
y.1 Aims' z5 A dial was established to compare emergence ofAmblysetus cucumeris and prey mite (Tyrophagus putrescenttae~ from the novel systcm comparcd to the standard contmllcd release systegt sachets produccd by Syugenta Hiolinc, and the standard produat9 of two competitors.
2o ~.2 Triul design Several different products were tested in the trial. The table below indicates these products.
Product Description A Novcl systcm 1: 40 ~ paper coated vcrith 20g/m polyethylene 19 Novcl systcm 2: 40g/m paper coated with SOg/m polyethylene C Bxiating 'sachet' syetearn, Syng~ta 8ioline D Competitor 1 product E Competitor ~ product 25 All product types were suspended over plants in a greenhouse in identical conditions, with overhead watering from an sutamatit aprir~ldcr systcm once etch day to represent the watcring 5y5tcms used in many ore~amcntal crops.
....,~ ~".,.,,~u.
Existing sachet systems were $tted with waterproof plasda hooks to ensure that they remained hanging where placed for the duration of the trial, thcrcforc artificially prolonging the life of existing sachets which usually fall to the ground withis~ fi~ro weeks after the hooks cvllapsc. This was necessary to oompare the effects of water'sRg on the contents of the diffexeyat systems.
1.3 sl.ssessmeats Due to the practical diPaculties in measuring mite emergence under overhead irrigation, several sachets / sys'Eems were removed from the test conditions at savc~a day intervals, taken to an environment room, and suspaadexl. over a sticky surface to trap mites which emerged over the following 7 days. The uumhers of predator mites (Amb~yreius) and grey mites (Tyrophagus) were counted.
is 1.4 Results The eumulaxive number of~lmblysetus which emerged during the trial arc shown iu the table below.
Product '~'Veek Week 2 Week 3 Week Week 5 Weep 6 p 23 109 112 373 648 664 ?25 422 654 991 1757 2059 The ournula~tive number of Tyraphugus which emerged during the trial axe shown in the table below.
product Week 1 Week 2 'Week Weep. Week 5 Week 6 8 2871 4566 5704 7148 '258 ?301 ~~~rt ..;.:,y~. -.W R --'.-..?V gv C~~°,1 _ . .. . . . ~'.''~ . . . ?.
. . . . .
C 3982 5793 132DD 1fi345 19999 20664 D 3343 95fi9 10642 13791 14034 14624 1.5 Summcuy Theze is na significant difference bcctwacn products A and B.
Emergence ofAm~ry.~eius cucumerds is higher throughout the release period from the novel cystenas (A axLd E) than from our existing product (C).
Emergence ofAmbryseius cucumeris from the novel systems (A and S) is significantly higher throughout the release period than for Competitor 1's product (D).
Ernergenoe of Amblyseeus~ cucu»ieris is more uniform throughout the release period than that of Competitor 2's product (~).
i0 Emergence of Tyrophagus pzr~cr~e~cenriae is lower from the hovel systems than &oru our existing product (C).
Emcrger~.ee of ?=yr~ophasg~ss putrescentrae ie lower frara the novel systems than from either competitor pxoduct.
In one embodiment of the present invention, the said regions are substantially similar in size. The invention includes, but is not limited to regions which are identical in shape and size. In one aspect of the invention, there are two regions. In another aspect of the invention, both regions are compartments. In a further aspect of the invention, both 2o compartments comprise beneficial insects or mites. In a further aspect of the invention, there are at least two regions. In another aspect of the invention, each region is a compartment. In a further aspect of the invention, at least one of the regions is not a compartment.
The term 'protected cropping environment' refers to a variety of growing situations, including for example growing crops in greenhouses, plastic tunnels, glasshouses, shade-houses az~d other similar environments. However, the invention is not limited to use in such environments, but may alternatively be used outside, for example in a field.
3o The term 'film material' includes any material which is preferably water resistant and air permeable. In one aspect, the invention includes films such as paper, thermoplastic (such as polythene) and polythene-coated paper. Further examples of other suitable thin materials, include fabric coated with polythene, and goretex~. The film material must be ~uuate~r resistant to prevent water from entering the system, and permeable to allor~r gas exchange for survival of the insects or mites within the system. The water resistant property of the film material refers to an ability of the elm material to either repel or not absorb water. Yt include, but is not limited to mx~tcri2~ls which axe totally imp~.vious to water (watarproofj. Therefore, water applied to or falling oa the system will run off, rather than be absorbed into the film matarial. The film material ~ovill preferably be lightweight so that tha system can easily be hung front branches of plants v~rithout damaging them_ io The invention includes strips of Ifhn material which are any shape or size.
Typically, the strip of film will bo sectasrgular, for axample mcasuri~ag approximately 20cm by ~.Scm.
The term 'sealed' iucludas sealissg using glue, heat, tape, or fixing together by any other means. 1~or example, strips ofplastie-coated film material may be sealed using heat.
The emergence hole or holes are located in the inner i~ca of the folded conformation.
This is important so that, when the system is folded, water cannot entea the emergence halos dun to the 'umbrella' effect of the inverted V- or U- type coufiguratiou. The present invention iaeludes systems whioh comprise one or copra eurexgauce holes per 2o compartment. Ia one aspect of the invention, the emergence holes are located is the top half of the compartment when the system is in its inverted V- ar IT- type configuration.
In a further aspect of the invention. the holes are between approximately 0.5mm and 5mm in diameter. In one aspect of the invention, the holes are approximately imm in diameter. In another aspect of the invention, tho holes are approximately 2mm in diameter. Tn a ftwther asp~t of the invention, the holes are approximately ~mm is diameter.
prior art 'sachet' products have serrated seals ~xrhieh provide a series of ridges along tha edges of the sachet. Further. the process of making a serrated seal after causes the edges of the product to curl. The presence of said ridges and curls allows water to colleot on the outside of the sachet, and in time, the water wicks along paper fibres and the sachet contents become wet. This disrupts the micro-climate within the sachet, aazd therefore oar considerably shorten the life of the system. In one ~nbadiment of the present ru ., ..m,.u.c.r0. ~<;.~'r~.,..,.Y~r ,tux.. ,tttcx~ueevawc~.",.cifi.~~,r~sn.-Wewrap~xas~4~,~rFm~.~zfF9A~ad~,'v&n ~ '-.
invention, the regions are sealed along their edges using a substantially seamless seal so that water does not collect on the outside. In one aspect of the invention, the substantially seaualess seal is a flat seal. 2tre present invention also includes other types of seal which do not result in ridges, pockets or dips in which water could accumulate.
In one embodiment of tho present invention, the film material is paper coated with substantially water impermeable thermoplastic. Thin ftlrn material is both water resistant so that water rune off the system, and permeable to allow gas exchange. rn one aspect of the ia~rention, the thermoplastic is polythene with a density ofbetween 5 and 140 g/ma.
1n In another aspect of the invention, the polyCheue density is between 10 and 75 g/m2. Yn a further aspect of the invention, the polythene density is between 15 and SO
glm2, rn another aspect of the invcntiorl, the polythene density is approximately 20 g/ma.
The invention includes different film materials which may ba suitable for use in the ~ s system. For example, the film material may be paper, arid the iuventian includes different paper types suitable for use in. the system. In one aspect of the invention. the paper is machine glazed bleached kraft paper. bther suitable paper types include, for eeample, grid lacquer paper or medical paper. The paper density may be bctvv~een 1 o and 100 g/m2. For example, for blcarhal kraft paper, the density may be approximately 40 2o g/m2, and for grid lacquer papers the density may be approximately 60 g/mr.
The invention inclrxdes pap~r which is coated, far example with high density polythene, to ensure that it is water resistant.
In one embodiment of the present invention, the system is folded to form azl invV-25 or U- type conformation. This fold may be anywhere in the system, rn a preferred aspect of the invention, the fold is positioned. approximately centx~lly at a point along one axis, The invention is not limited to strict inverted V- or U- conformations, but includec systems which era capable of being folded into similar shapes, or an intermediate shape between V- and U- shaped. In one aspect elf the invention, the inverted V- or U- type 3o conformation is present at or around the position of the fold itself The sides of the system may optionally comprise further folds so that the overall configuration of the system does not closely resemble as inverted V- or U- type conformation, rn a fixrGtier aspect of the inventioxt, the aides of the system either side of the fold are different lengths .. .,. z .. .,3 .~ s ~. . _.w ~. < ._ . . , x, ~~~ ~,~~. .,~ro,~. w,. ~
~,~,~w,~~ ~..~:,~ r.~~,$~~~~~"~"~~~,r,P~e~ ""~. ~......m ea ~ ~,~ .
. 7 .
or sizes. In a still further aspect of the invention, the sides ofthe system either side of the fold are substantially similar in size. The present invention :i'urther includes regions which are constructed individually, and subsequently sealed together so that they may be folded into an inverted V or U- type conformation.
In another embodiment of the present invention, there are as equal aumbex of regions either side of the fold. The invention is not limited to a single region on either side of the fold, but encompasses systems comprising multiple regions. In one embodiment of the inv~aiion, the sides of the inverted V- ar U- type conformation are approximately equal ~o in weight. This enables the system to hang evenly when suspended from the fold. Zn one aspext of the invention, there must be substantially the same number of eouapartm~ts of substantially airuilar size and substantially similar weight either side ofthe fold. At least one of the regiane must be a aompartrnent which comprises beneficial insects or ruites -further regions, ho~ove~rer, may also be compartments and may comprise different insects i5 ar mites ar serve a different function such as simply serving as a counter balance. The invention also includes a system comprising, fbr example, two compartments whereon one of the compartments is empty.
In ono embodiment of the present invention, the fold takes the farm of an attachment 2o means which functions as a hook from which to hang said system. The system may, for example, be hooked over a branch of a plant, or over the ruriares used to support a crop, so that the sides of the inverted V- or U- type contbrmauon are either side of the branch or wire. Alternati.~rely, the system of the present fnvention may be freestanding, for example on the ground or pot in which the plant is growing.
Optionally, the system may comprise a further hook, for example made from plastic.
Such a further hook may be located at or near the fold and may, for example be used to hang the system ii»m branches where the leaves are close together so that hooking using the fold is difficult. Preferably, the system is less than 5cm in width so chat ft may easily 3o be hooked over the branches of plants between leaf nodes.
In on~ aspect of the present inwentioa, the system measures approximately 20crn in length and approximately ct.5am in width. If the system is folded is half with the fold in r.. . ~.a~, w. . * * ,.,.: n.~~ ~ . ~ m - g -the middle of the long axis, each compartment measures approximately l Ocm by approximately 4.5otn. The seals amat~nd the edges may measure approximately 5 to l0mm in ~uvidth. What in its folded conforraatioa, the fold itselfmay, for example, be between 1 axul l Omm iti width to accommodate branches cad wires of different thickness.
In a further embodiment of the present invention, there is provided a system as described in the preceding paragraphs, wherein the inverted V- or U- type conformation provides a stable microclimate, resulting in a steady release rate ofbeneficial insecrs or mites over approximately a 6 week period. 'Stahlc rriicroclima~ta' refers to a microclimatc in and to around the compartments of the system. which does not fluctuate in humidity and temaparatute ae much as prior art 'sachet' systems. A stable mieroclimate is important to ensure that'tbe colony of insects or azites continues to breed. Zn the preset invention, the microclirnate is stabilised due to the design and conformation of the System..
The °umbrella,' etlf'ect of the invertal V- or U- type conformation prevents water fmm is entering the compat9ment through the emergence holes, so that the humidity levels remain relatively constant. In one aspect of the present invention, the substantially scatnlcss seals of the regions prevent water collecting on the outside of the regions and therefore help maaataiu steady humidity levels, The greseuce of at least two regions is useful to reduce fluctuations in temperature, for example due to time of day or 2o positioai.ng relative to the sun.
The 'release rate' refers to the number ofbcncficial insects or mitts that arc released or emerge frrnm the cotapartmcnts over a period of time. A steady release rate refers to said rclaaae rate being approximately constant over approximately a 6 week period 2S commencisig when the system is put in use. For example, the release rate may be between approximately 200 and 300 insects or mites released each week_ Therefore a total of approximately 1500 insets or mites mar be released over approximately a 6 week period. A high release rate may be in the order of 700 insects or mites per week while a Iow release rate rRay be 50 insects or mites per week. prior art products typically so have a release rate which is not steady, but fluctuates over tfme, for exempla ranging from 100 mites per wa~k to ?50 mites per week.
..g_ Emergence of prey mites can be damaging to the crop plar~ts. Therefore au importaat feature of the inventian is the formulation in tine compartments. It is impartant to achieve the correct initial balance be~veeri predator and prey to ensure a plentiful and uniform emergence of Amblysetus cuestmet°ls without excessive emergence of Zyrophagus putreseentiae. Due to the conformation of the grescrrt irlvcntion, the rate of escape of prey mitts is sigaifxcautly reduced, therefore resulting in decreased damage to crop pleats. For example, typically greater tl~ 10,000, and often greater than 20,000 Tyrophag~ss escape fram prior art products over a 6 week period, while fewer than 10,000 ~~rrophasgus escape from the present system over the same time period.
to Iri one embodigtettt of the present invention, there is prvvidcd a system suitable for providing beneficial insects or mitts in a protected cropping envimtxment, wherein the beneficial insects yr miters ate xnaintain$d as a breeding population. In one aspect of the inv~tion, the oo~ztpartments comprise a food sourice for the beneficial insects or mites.
t S In a fiufiher aspect of the invention, the food source consists of prey insects or mites. In a further aspect of the invention, the compamnents fltrther camprise a food source for said prey insects or mites.
In one embodiment of the present invention, at least one compartment contains a 20 formulation eomprisiag viable Amblyseiu~ caeumerix, a predatory mite which may be used for the control of thrips such as Fra~skdiriiella occidentalis, and Thraps tabaci; viable grain or stored product pest mites; and bran_ The grai" or stored product pest mites may, for example be Tyrophagus spies such as 2~rophagus putrescentiae. Tyrophagus troptcus~, or another species such as Acaru~ sire. Alternatively, the grain or stored 25 product pest mitts zriay be a mixture of these two species. In sae aspect of the present invention, the grain or stored product pest mites are ?'yrophagees putre~srcenaiae. In one embodiment of the invention, the .Aanbly~seius cucur~seris and grain cu stored product pest mites are present is a ratio of approximately 1:10. This ratio of predatory mites to prey mites is important for maintaining a successtttl breeding population over a period of 6 30 weeks or longer. Iftoo few prey mites are presennt in the system, they will be eaten quickly by the predatory mitts, resulting is a high number of predatory mites being released over a short time period, and the system having a short life. In contrast, if too many prey mites ate present in the system, they may escape through the emergence - IO-hoie(s). This is undesirable since prey mites can cause damage to crop plants.
Therefore, the formulation is a key aspect of the present system for effective pest control.
Tn one aspect of the invention, at least one compartment comprises a formulation consisting of 1 Amblyseius cucunaeris for every 10 Tyrophagsss putr,ascentiae and O.SZg ofprey food mix. The prey food mix rnay be made with steamed bran and a 3:I
mix of yeast and wheatgarm. Y,n one embodiment of the invention, the formulation is split equally between two or more compartments.
1'he invention also includes other types of beneficial insects and mites which are capable of being maintainai as a breeding colony. Iu particular, the invention ineludea other species of Am~51'yseius~. Further, the invention is not limit~d to the use of f~rophagus putrescentaae as a food source, but includes other species of Tyrophag~s, such as f "yrophagus tropicus, other mites such as Acarus siro, or at~y other insect or mite which i s the beneficial insect or mite could feed on. The invention further includes the use of as alternarive food source to grain mites. This is useful to reduce damage to crop plants caused by grain or stored. product pest mites which escape from the system.
In an tnabodiment of the present invention, theta is provided a system as described 2o above, comprising one region which is a compartment and a second region vVhich is a formed fxom a substantially plaxiar sheet, ~cxrherein said second region is appmximately the same weight as the first region when it is in the form of a filled compartment to act as a counterbalance. In one aspect of the invention, the sand region is not a compartment.
Yn a further aspect of the invcntivn, the second region is a ballast to act as a 2s countcrbalanco for the first region.
In one embodiment of the present invention, there is provided a method for providing a steady release rate of beneheial insects or mites comprising providing the beneficial insects or mites in a system as described above. In one embodiment of the present 3o invention, there is a method of controlling thzips in a pratcctcd cropping environment comprising providing s syste~rn suitable for providing beneficial insects or mites as described above. In one aspect of the invention, said method may be used to control 'W'estera Flower Thrips, Frankl'aniella occidentali~. The present invention is also suitable for the confirol of other thrip species, such as Thrips tabaci, in addition to other pest insets.
1n one cmbodimexlt of the prcsent invention, there is provided the uea of a syst~n as described about for the control of pest ixisecte on horticultural crops in a protected mopping enviromnent. Horticultural crops for which this invention may be used include, fur example, salad vegetables, cut flowers and ornamental plants.
to E~CAIVtpIaES
1. 'T'rala comparing the performance of the nave! system to existing cantrol~d rel~ase systeyn products in vvet eanditzons.
y.1 Aims' z5 A dial was established to compare emergence ofAmblysetus cucumeris and prey mite (Tyrophagus putrescenttae~ from the novel systcm comparcd to the standard contmllcd release systegt sachets produccd by Syugenta Hiolinc, and the standard produat9 of two competitors.
2o ~.2 Triul design Several different products were tested in the trial. The table below indicates these products.
Product Description A Novcl systcm 1: 40 ~ paper coated vcrith 20g/m polyethylene 19 Novcl systcm 2: 40g/m paper coated with SOg/m polyethylene C Bxiating 'sachet' syetearn, Syng~ta 8ioline D Competitor 1 product E Competitor ~ product 25 All product types were suspended over plants in a greenhouse in identical conditions, with overhead watering from an sutamatit aprir~ldcr systcm once etch day to represent the watcring 5y5tcms used in many ore~amcntal crops.
....,~ ~".,.,,~u.
Existing sachet systems were $tted with waterproof plasda hooks to ensure that they remained hanging where placed for the duration of the trial, thcrcforc artificially prolonging the life of existing sachets which usually fall to the ground withis~ fi~ro weeks after the hooks cvllapsc. This was necessary to oompare the effects of water'sRg on the contents of the diffexeyat systems.
1.3 sl.ssessmeats Due to the practical diPaculties in measuring mite emergence under overhead irrigation, several sachets / sys'Eems were removed from the test conditions at savc~a day intervals, taken to an environment room, and suspaadexl. over a sticky surface to trap mites which emerged over the following 7 days. The uumhers of predator mites (Amb~yreius) and grey mites (Tyrophagus) were counted.
is 1.4 Results The eumulaxive number of~lmblysetus which emerged during the trial arc shown iu the table below.
Product '~'Veek Week 2 Week 3 Week Week 5 Weep 6 p 23 109 112 373 648 664 ?25 422 654 991 1757 2059 The ournula~tive number of Tyraphugus which emerged during the trial axe shown in the table below.
product Week 1 Week 2 'Week Weep. Week 5 Week 6 8 2871 4566 5704 7148 '258 ?301 ~~~rt ..;.:,y~. -.W R --'.-..?V gv C~~°,1 _ . .. . . . ~'.''~ . . . ?.
. . . . .
C 3982 5793 132DD 1fi345 19999 20664 D 3343 95fi9 10642 13791 14034 14624 1.5 Summcuy Theze is na significant difference bcctwacn products A and B.
Emergence ofAm~ry.~eius cucumerds is higher throughout the release period from the novel cystenas (A axLd E) than from our existing product (C).
Emergence ofAmbryseius cucumeris from the novel systems (A and S) is significantly higher throughout the release period than for Competitor 1's product (D).
Ernergenoe of Amblyseeus~ cucu»ieris is more uniform throughout the release period than that of Competitor 2's product (~).
i0 Emergence of Tyrophagus pzr~cr~e~cenriae is lower from the hovel systems than &oru our existing product (C).
Emcrger~.ee of ?=yr~ophasg~ss putrescentrae ie lower frara the novel systems than from either competitor pxoduct.
Claims (27)
1. A system suitable for providing beneficial insects or mites in a protected cropping environment, comprising at least two strips of water-resistant film material of approximately the same size, one overlaid on the other, sealed together at their edges and further sealed together at least once at a point along at least one axis to form at least two substantially planar regions, at least one of which regions is a compartment separated by the further seal, - wherein the said compartment comprises beneficial insects or mites, - wherein the compartment comprising beneficial insects or mites comprises at least one emergence hole on one side of the compartment so that insects or mites can emerge, and - wherein the system is capable of being folded to form an inverted V- or U-type conformation wherein the emergence hole or holes are thus located on the inside of the folded conformation, so that water cannot enter the compartment through the emergence hole or holes when the system is in the said folded conformation.
2. A system suitable for providing beneficial insects or mites in a protected cropping environment, comprising at least one strip of water-resistant film material, folded along one edge, sealed together at the remaining edges, and further sealed together at least once at a point along at least one axis to form at least two substantially planar regions, at least one of which regions is a compartment separated by the further seal, - wherein the said compartment comprises beneficial insects or mites, - wherein the compartment comprising beneficial insects or mites comprises at least one emergence hole on one side of the compartment so that insects or mites can emerge, and - wherein the system is capable of being folded to form an inverted V- or U-type conformation wherein the emergence hole or holes are thus located on the inside of the folded conformation, so that water cannot enter the compartment through the emergence hole or holes when the system is in the said folded conformation.
3. A system according to claim 1 or 2, wherein at least one of the regions is in the form of a ballast to counter the weight of the said compartment comprising beneficial insects or mites.
4. A system according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the said system is folded along said further seal to form said inverted V- or U- type conformation.
5. A system suitable for providing beneficial insects or mites in a protected cropping environment, comprising at least two substantially planar regions joined together along one edge, at least one of which regions is a compartment, - wherein the said compartment is formed from at least two strips of water resistant film material of approximately the same size, one overlaid on the other, and sealed together at their edges, or at least one strip of film material, folded along one edge, and sealed together at the remaining edges, - wherein the said compartment comprises beneficial insects or mites, - wherein the compartment comprising beneficial insects or mites comprises at least one emergence hole on one side of the compartment so that insects or mites can emerge, and - wherein the system is capable of being folded to form an inverted V- or U-type conformation wherein the emergence hole or holes are thus located on the inside of the folded conformation, so that water cannot enter the compartment through the emergence hole or holes when the system is in the said folded conformation.
6. A system according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the said regions are substantially similar in size.
7. A system suitable for providing beneficial insects or mites according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the regions are sealed along their edges using a substantially seamless seal so that water cannot collect on the outside.
8. A system suitable for providing beneficial insects or mites according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the film material is paper coated with substantially water impermeable thermoplastic.
9. A system according to claim 8, wherein the thermoplastic is polythene with a density of between 5 and 100 g/m2.
10. A system according to claim 9, wherein the polythene density is approximately 20 g/m2.
11. A system according to any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein the film material is machine glazed bleached kraft paper.
12. A system according to any one of claims 1 to 11, wherein the fold to form an inverted V- or U- type conformation system is positioned approximately centrally at a point along one axis.
13. A system according to claim 9, wherein there are an equal number of regions on either side of the fold.
14. A system according to claim 13, wherein the sides of the inverted V- or U-conformation are approximately equal in weight so that the system hangs evenly when suspended from the fold.
15. A system according to any one of claims 12 to 14, wherein the fold takes the form of an attachment means which functions as a hook from which to hang said system.
16. A system according to any one of claims 1 to 15, wherein the inverted V-or U-type conformation provides a stable microclimate, resulting in a steady release rate of beneficial insects or mites over approximately a 6 week period.
1?. A system according to any one of claims 1 to 16, wherein the beneficial insects or mites are maintained as a breeding population.
18. A system according to claim 17, wherein the compartment comprises a food source for the beneficial insects or mites.
19. A system according to claim 18, wherein the food source consists of prey insects or mites, and the compartment further comprises a food source for said prey insects or mites.
20. A system according to any one of claims 1 to 19, wherein the said compartment contains a formulation comprising viable Amblyseius cucumeris, viable grain or stored product pest mites and bran.
21. A system according to claim 20, wherein the grain or stored product pest mites are Tyrophagus putrescentiae, and the Amblyseius cucumeris and Tyrophagus putrescentiae are present in a ratio of approximately 1:10.
22. A system according to claim 21, wherein the formulation is split equally between two compartments.
23. A system according to any one of claims 1 to 22, comprising one region which is a compartment and a second region which is formed from a substantially planar sheet, wherein said second region is approximately the same weight as the first region when it is in the form of a filled compartment to act as a counterbalance.
24. A method for providing a steady release rate of beneficial insects or mites comprising providing the beneficial insects or mites in a system according to any one of claims 1 to 23.
25. A method of controlling thrips in a protected cropping environment comprising providing a system suitable for providing beneficial insects or mites according to any one of claims 1 to 23.
26. A method according to claim 24 or 25, for controlling Western Flower Thrips, Frankliniella occidentalis.
27. Use of a system according to any one of claims 1 to 23 for the control of pest insects on horticultural crops in a protected cropping environment.
Priority Applications (6)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| GB0403486A GB2393890B (en) | 2004-02-17 | 2004-02-17 | System for providing beneficial insects or mites |
| CA002455156A CA2455156C (en) | 2004-02-17 | 2004-02-17 | System for providing beneficial insects or mites |
| NL1025543A NL1025543C2 (en) | 2004-02-17 | 2004-02-20 | Beneficial insect- or mite-providing system for controlling pest insects on horticultural crops in protected cropping environment, has at least two planar regions, with one region being compartment containing beneficial insects or mites |
| JP2004050020A JP3996583B2 (en) | 2004-02-17 | 2004-02-25 | System for providing beneficial insects or beneficial mites |
| ES200400469A ES2213494B1 (en) | 2004-02-17 | 2004-02-27 | SYSTEM TO PROVIDE INSECTS OR BENEFICIAL ACAROS. |
| FR0402456A FR2849646B1 (en) | 2004-02-17 | 2004-03-09 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR PROVIDING BENEFICIAL INSECTS OR MITES, AND METHOD FOR CONTROLLING HARMFUL INSECTS USING SAME |
Applications Claiming Priority (5)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| GB0403486A GB2393890B (en) | 2004-02-17 | 2004-02-17 | System for providing beneficial insects or mites |
| CA002455156A CA2455156C (en) | 2004-02-17 | 2004-02-17 | System for providing beneficial insects or mites |
| NL1025543A NL1025543C2 (en) | 2004-02-17 | 2004-02-20 | Beneficial insect- or mite-providing system for controlling pest insects on horticultural crops in protected cropping environment, has at least two planar regions, with one region being compartment containing beneficial insects or mites |
| JP2004050020A JP3996583B2 (en) | 2004-02-17 | 2004-02-25 | System for providing beneficial insects or beneficial mites |
| ES200400469A ES2213494B1 (en) | 2004-02-17 | 2004-02-27 | SYSTEM TO PROVIDE INSECTS OR BENEFICIAL ACAROS. |
Publications (2)
| Publication Number | Publication Date |
|---|---|
| CA2455156A1 CA2455156A1 (en) | 2004-05-18 |
| CA2455156C true CA2455156C (en) | 2006-01-24 |
Family
ID=32966745
Family Applications (1)
| Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA002455156A Expired - Lifetime CA2455156C (en) | 2004-02-17 | 2004-02-17 | System for providing beneficial insects or mites |
Country Status (6)
| Country | Link |
|---|---|
| JP (1) | JP3996583B2 (en) |
| CA (1) | CA2455156C (en) |
| ES (1) | ES2213494B1 (en) |
| FR (1) | FR2849646B1 (en) |
| GB (1) | GB2393890B (en) |
| NL (1) | NL1025543C2 (en) |
Families Citing this family (21)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| CA2455156C (en) * | 2004-02-17 | 2006-01-24 | Syngenta Bioline Limited | System for providing beneficial insects or mites |
| MX275245B (en) | 2004-12-31 | 2010-04-16 | Koppert Bv | Mite composition, use thereof, method for rearing a phytoseiid predatory mite, rearing system for rearing said phytoseiid predatory mite and methods for biological pest control on a crop. |
| PL2042036T3 (en) | 2004-12-31 | 2011-11-30 | Koppert Bv | Mite composition, use thereof, method for rearing the phytoseiid predatory mite Amblyseius swirskii, rearing system for rearing said phytoseiid mite and methods for biological pest control on a crop |
| MX277715B (en) | 2005-12-29 | 2010-07-30 | Koppert Bv | Mite composition comprising glycyphagidae and phytoseiid mites, use thereof, method for rearing a phytoseiid predatory mite, rearing system for rearing said phytoseiid predatory mite and methods for biological pest control on a crop |
| GB0615358D0 (en) * | 2006-08-02 | 2006-09-13 | Syngenta Bioline Ltd | Improvements in or relating to organic compounds |
| GB0703672D0 (en) * | 2007-02-26 | 2007-04-04 | Biolog Crop Prot Ltd | Mite composition, use thereof, method for rearing a mite, rearing system, use of the composition in biological pest control, and method of biological pest |
| ATE511751T1 (en) | 2007-03-30 | 2011-06-15 | Alk Abello As | METHOD FOR THE PRODUCTION OF MITES |
| EP2163156A1 (en) | 2008-09-15 | 2010-03-17 | Biobest NV | Device and method for dispensing beneficial arthropods |
| ES2345594B1 (en) * | 2009-03-26 | 2011-07-13 | Agrocontrol 2007, S.L | COMPOSITION OF ACAROS, PROCEDURE FOR THE RAISING OF THE SAME AND USE OF SUCH COMPOSITION IN BIOLOGICAL CONTROL PROGRAMS. |
| NL1039058C2 (en) | 2011-09-20 | 2013-03-21 | Koppert Bv | Phytoseiid predatory mite releasing system and method for production. |
| EP2612551B1 (en) * | 2012-01-04 | 2014-11-05 | Koppert B.V. | Mite composition comprising a predatory mite and immobilized prey contacted with a fungus reducing agent and methods and uses related to the use of said composition |
| EP2800467B1 (en) * | 2012-01-04 | 2016-06-29 | Koppert B.V. | Mite composition, carrier, method for rearing mites and uses related thereto |
| FR2992148B1 (en) | 2012-06-22 | 2019-12-27 | Centre International D'etudes Superieures En Sciences Agronomiques | COMPOSITION COMPRISING ARTHROPODS AND EGGS OF ASTIGMATES |
| FR2992149B1 (en) | 2012-06-22 | 2019-12-27 | Centre International D'etudes Superieures En Sciences Agronomiques | USE OF AURUROGLYPHUS OVATUS FOR THE BREEDING OF PREDATORY MITES |
| EP2764775B1 (en) | 2013-02-07 | 2015-10-14 | Biobest Belgium NV | Mite rearing methods |
| CN103583506B (en) * | 2013-09-29 | 2015-09-09 | 北京市植物保护站 | A kind of method utilizing Amblyseius persidolongispinosus to prevent and treat horticultural crop evil mite |
| NL2016103B1 (en) | 2016-01-15 | 2017-08-02 | Koppert Bv | System for releasing beneficial mites and uses thereof. |
| WO2019017776A1 (en) | 2017-07-16 | 2019-01-24 | Koppert B.V. | System for releasing beneficial mites and uses thereof |
| WO2019162950A1 (en) * | 2018-02-26 | 2019-08-29 | Bio-Bee Sde Eliyahu Ltd. | Maintaining populations of natural enemies on plants |
| AU2019101113B4 (en) * | 2019-09-26 | 2020-06-04 | Steve Madden Agriculture Pty Ltd | Systems and methods for delivering parasitic insects |
| BE1027819B1 (en) * | 2019-12-04 | 2021-07-06 | Biobest Group N V | Mites composition and method for breeding mites |
Family Cites Families (10)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| AT368354B (en) * | 1980-02-15 | 1982-10-11 | Unilever Nv | METHOD FOR THE TREATMENT OF INSECT DOLLS, LABELING OF THE INSECTS DEVELOPING FROM THEM AND THEIR CONTROLLED DISTRIBUTION, AND CONTAINERS FOR IMPLEMENTING THIS METHOD |
| US4498420A (en) * | 1984-01-23 | 1985-02-12 | Container Corporation Of America | Carton for insects |
| GB2168680B (en) * | 1984-12-21 | 1989-06-14 | Bunting Peter Eric | Distribution of living arthropods or the like |
| GB8725229D0 (en) * | 1987-10-28 | 1987-12-02 | Natural Pest Control Ltd | Pest control |
| US4966329A (en) * | 1989-04-13 | 1990-10-30 | Driscoll Strawberry Associates, Inc. | Predator mite and beneficial insect field applicator |
| GB2232571B (en) * | 1989-05-04 | 1994-02-09 | Biolog Crop Protection Ltd | Pest control |
| DE9301465U1 (en) * | 1993-02-03 | 1993-05-27 | Wolfensberger Ag Kartonagen + Verpackungsdruck, Zumikon | Carrier for laying eggs |
| GB2305843A (en) * | 1995-10-02 | 1997-04-23 | Peter Rossiter | Biological control of insect pests |
| DE10027767A1 (en) * | 2000-06-07 | 2001-12-13 | Fischer Artur Werke Gmbh | Container for spreading beneficial organisms |
| CA2455156C (en) * | 2004-02-17 | 2006-01-24 | Syngenta Bioline Limited | System for providing beneficial insects or mites |
-
2004
- 2004-02-17 CA CA002455156A patent/CA2455156C/en not_active Expired - Lifetime
- 2004-02-17 GB GB0403486A patent/GB2393890B/en not_active Expired - Lifetime
- 2004-02-20 NL NL1025543A patent/NL1025543C2/en not_active IP Right Cessation
- 2004-02-25 JP JP2004050020A patent/JP3996583B2/en not_active Expired - Fee Related
- 2004-02-27 ES ES200400469A patent/ES2213494B1/en not_active Expired - Fee Related
- 2004-03-09 FR FR0402456A patent/FR2849646B1/en not_active Expired - Fee Related
Also Published As
| Publication number | Publication date |
|---|---|
| GB0403486D0 (en) | 2004-03-24 |
| JP3996583B2 (en) | 2007-10-24 |
| ES2213494B1 (en) | 2005-11-01 |
| ES2213494A1 (en) | 2004-08-16 |
| JP2004175810A (en) | 2004-06-24 |
| FR2849646B1 (en) | 2005-07-15 |
| CA2455156A1 (en) | 2004-05-18 |
| GB2393890A (en) | 2004-04-14 |
| FR2849646A1 (en) | 2004-07-09 |
| NL1025543A1 (en) | 2004-03-08 |
| GB2393890B (en) | 2004-08-25 |
| NL1025543C2 (en) | 2004-05-14 |
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| EEER | Examination request | ||
| MKEX | Expiry |
Effective date: 20240219 |