Biological Control
Atheta
Atheta can be introduced against different soil pests in several ornamental, vegetable and crops. The adult beetles and the larvae will mainly search for eggs, young larvae and pupae of the sciarid fly (sciara). The adult beetles will also contribute to the control of the 2nd larval stage of the Western flower thrips.
Atheta-System can be applied to different media, such as compost, coconut fibre, rock wool, etc
Adult Atheta beetles are dark brown to shiny black, 3 to 4 mm long and are completely covered with hair. Atheta has three larval stages during which the larvae change from white to orange brown. Except for the egg and pupa stages, all stages of Atheta actively search for prey. Because of their flight capability, adults can travel through a greenhouse, which ensures good distribution and fast population development.
Total development time from egg to adult takes about three weeks. After that period the adult predatory beetle will be active for approx. three weeks. An adult female will lay 8 eggs per day during the first two weeks after maturing
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