Orius majusculus

Type

Predatory bug (minute pirate bug)

Target pests

• Thrips (leaf-dwelling species and larvae/adults)

Best use

Often considered the stronger Orius species for leaf thrips and cooler/less flower-dependent situations.

Comparison

• Orius laevigatus is typically best once crops are flowering and flower thrips dominate.
• Orius majusculus can perform better earlier or under cooler conditions.

Use in crops

• Cucumbers
• Ornamentals
• Soft fruit (early season)

Notes

A key predator when thrips pressure is mainly on leaves rather than flowers.

IPM positioning

Preventative thrips predator suited to cooler greenhouse conditions.

Best deployment strategy

• Use as a preventative thrips predator where conditions are cooler or more variable.
• Introduce early and maintain through top-ups during known risk windows.
• Works well alongside predatory mites for egg/larval suppression.

Compatibility notes

• Works well with: Amblyseius cucumeris / Amblyseius swirskii for layered thrips control.
• Note: as with other Orius, benefits from pollen/flower resources where available.

Environmental preferences

• More tolerant of cooler conditions than some Orius species.
• Establishment still improves with good light and stable temperatures.