Orius laevigatus

Type

Predator (minute pirate bug)

Target pests

• Thrips

Best conditions

• Temperature:
• Humidity:
• Light:

Use in crops

• Peppers
• Strawberries

Notes

-

IPM positioning

Preventative and curative predator for thrips. Establishes well under suitable light and temperature.

Best deployment strategy

• Introduce preventatively before thrips damage escalates.
• Support establishment with habitat/food (pollen sources) where appropriate.
• Maintain a background population through periodic top-ups during peak thrips periods.

Compatibility notes

• Works well with: predatory mites (Amblyseius Cucumeris, Amblyseius Swirskii) for egg/larval suppression plus adult thrips predation.
• Note: establishment is improved where pollen/flower resources are available (crop-dependent).

Environmental preferences

• Generally prefers warmer conditions and good light for strong establishment.
• Benefits from pollen/flower resources where available (crop-dependent).
• Establishment can be slower in low light or cool periods.