Aphytis melinus - Scale Control

$25.35

8 reviews
SKU: 275
Minus Plus
TARGET PESTS

Scientific Names: Aphytis melinus

California Red Scale, Ivy Scale, Oleander Scale, San Jose Scale, Walnut Scale, Dictyospermum Scale, & various other scale species.


PRODUCT DESCRIPTION

SHIPPED FRESH & QUALITY GUARANTEED

Scale control. 1-2mm actual size.

Aphytis melinus is a specialized parasitoid renowned for its role as a natural predator targeting specific scale insects, notably the red scale (Aonidiella aurantii). Adult Aphytis melinus have a slender body ranging from light-yellow to yellowish-brown, approximately 1mm in length, with elongated antennae and transparent wings with distinctive veins. Ideally suited for controlling scale insect populations, especially in warm, humid environments like greenhouses, Aphytis melinus females lay up to 100 eggs during their lifespan, depositing them beneath the protective waxy coating of scale insects.

After an incubation period of approximately 4-7 days, the eggs hatch into larvae that actively consume the host while undergoing development over the subsequent 10-14 days. Upon reaching maturity, the larvae pupate within the remnants of the scale insect for 7-10 days. Emerging as adults from the pupal casing, they promptly seek out new hosts to perpetuate the life cycle.

If you are unsure of which species of Scale Insects are infesting your plants, use Aphytis melinus in conjunction with Lindorus Lophanthae. Lindorus controls all life stages of a variety of Scale Insects.

CROPS

CROPS
Citrus
Olives
Passion Fruit

USAGES
Greenhouses
Interiorscapes
Field Crops
Gardens

INTRODUCTION RATES

1 insect per sq. ft., weekly when scale is active.
Temperature Range: 50-95°F

It's important to note that these introduction rates serve as general guidelines and can differ depending on the specific pest species, the plant being treated, and level of infestation. Proper monitoring of the infestation and the released beneficial insect population is crucial for determining the success of the biological control strategy.
APPLICATION

Introduce in the morning, evening, or when temperatures are cooler. Gently tap the lid to dislodge parasitoids from the lid/rim of the container and onto the foliage. Place container into the tree for full introduction.

STORAGE

For best results, introduce immediately upon receipt. Do not store adults.


DISCLAIMER / SHIPPING POLICY

STORE POLICIES

Thank you for shopping with us! Before placing your order, please review our Shipping Policy and Refund and Return Policy. By completing your purchase, you agree to these terms.

We do not provide recommendations on pesticide use. Products are sold for home use only, not commercial use.

QUALITY GUARANTEE

If your beneficial insects or other perishable products are not viable when delivered, email info@naturesgoodguys.sbs within 48 hours of delivery with your order number and a description of the problem. Photos may be requested. Approved replacements ship on Wednesdays and Thursdays.

  • Open your package right away and check for storage instructions. Some products need refrigeration, and improper storage voids the guarantee.
  • Ice packs help moderate temperature in transit and are not expected to arrive frozen.
  • Some insects need time at room temperature before they become active, and many are hard to see without magnification.

SHIPPING

  • Processing: 1 to 3 business days. Orders placed by 12:00 pm Pacific may process the same day, but this is not guaranteed.
  • Overnight: ships Monday to Thursday, and Friday for addresses with Saturday delivery, excluding holidays.
  • Second Day: ships Monday to Wednesday, and Thursday for addresses with Saturday delivery.
  • USPS: ships Monday to Friday.
  • We do not ship to PO boxes.

Some products are harvested on set days, and we may hold shipments during extreme weather to protect product quality. We will contact you if your order is delayed significantly.

CHANGES AND CANCELLATIONS

Please contact us within 30 minutes of placing your order to change or cancel it.

RETURNS AND REPLACEMENTS

Beneficial insects and other perishable products cannot be returned; they are covered by the Quality Guarantee above. Unopened garden supplies and tools can be returned within 30 days. Full details are in our Refund and Return Policy.

Replacements are not available for an incorrect shipping address, storage or use instructions not followed, or packages left uncollected after delivery.

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