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Biological control research

Biological Services is continually researching new beneficials for use as biological control agents in Australia. We are currently involved in two research projects to develop biological control agents for vineyards and olives. We also have ongoing collaboration with the National Centre for Greenhouse Horticulture (NSW DPI).

Euseius victoriensis

E. victoriensis is a predatory mite that attacks various pest mite species in grapes, citrus, stonefruit, and ornamentals. Biological Services, in cooperation with Melbourne University and Queensland University is studying the effects of augmentative releases of E. victoriensis on rust mite and bud mite in vineyards. This research proposes concrete practical steps to progress the implementation of ecologically based pest management in Australian vineyards. This work is being funded through grants from the Grape and Wine Research Development Council (GWRDC).

Metaphycus helvolus and Metaphycus lounsburyi

M. helvolus is a parasitic wasp that has reduced the severity of black scale in many parts of the world. Biological Services is conducting a project to improve biological control of black scale in olives. The project aims to minimise the need for insecticide applications by developing a method of mass producing Metaphycus helvolus. This project is in cooperation with SARDI and Modern Olives, and is being funded by the olive industry and Horticulture Australia (HAL).

Hypoaspis (Gaeolaelaps) aculeifer

A soil dwelling predator that is commonly used in Europe for the control of thrips and bulb mites. Biological Services has had a small research culture of this mite that is being tried on a small scale on roses in Victoria to aid in thrips control and on bulbs in Tasmania to control bulb mites with promising results. We are in the process of improving the rearing technique to make H. aculeifer commercially available.

More information on these predators and parasites can be found in 'The Good Bug Book', which is available for purchase from us.

Note: These biological control agents are not yet commercialised. If any of these products are of interest to you please let us know so that we can set research priorities and contact you when they become commercially available. You can also add your name to our mailing list to keep informed of new products.

Pesticide Free Produce

Biological Services continues to test and evaluate new and existing beneficial organisms on a range of crops in our greenhouse facilities.

Packaging

Our aim is to deliver high quality biological control agents in a timely and cost effective manner. We are currently working with packaging consultants to develop better packaging for many of our products. We are also developing a method for distribution of cucumeris in slow release sachets.

Euseius victoriensis

Metaphycus helvolus

Metaphycus helvolus

Cucumeris slow release sachet