Orius insidiosus

Deployed on the battlefield of pest control, Orius insidiosus aka Minute Pirate Bug is a highly skilled soldier, feared by adult thrips and other enemies of crops. Its unmatched predatory abilities allow it to feast on all stages of thrips, sucking out the contents of its prey’s bodies and leaving a trail of dried-out carcasses as war prizes. Even when thrips are not around, Orius stands ready to decimate the ranks of aphids, mites, and moth eggs. If released on pollen-bearing plants, it will be able to survive on alternative food, ever vigilant and ready to launch a furious attack at the first sign of pest activity.

With its unwavering dedication to the cause, Orius sometimes continues to hunt even when its appetite has been satisfied. Its tireless efforts make it a valuable asset to any biological control strategy.

Flowering strips within or around the field can also help sustain Orius’ population, allowing it to maintain its position as a key player in the battle against pests. And for maximum effectiveness, IPM professionals recommend deploying predatory mites such as Amblyseius cucumeris alongside Orius. Together, these skilled warriors are a force to be reckoned with. Thrips, beware Orius and its allies are ready to take you down.

What Orius insidiosus prefers to kill:

Orius insidiosus is probably the most effective predator of many thrips species including Onion Thrips (Thrips tabaci) and the Western Flower Thrips (Frankliniella occidentalis). It also feeds on other pests such as spider mites, aphids, and moth eggs. 

Orius insidiosus‘s preferred environmental conditions:

Orius Insidiosus’s ideal conditions are between 59-82°F with 60% relative humidity. Its development will considerably slow down below those temperatures and humidity levels.