The Netherlands
March 5, 2013

• Entonem is effective against the pupae and larvae of thrips.
• This pest can cause major problems in many ornamental and vegetable crops.
• Entonem contains the beneficial nematode Steinernema feltiae.
• Good timing and application are crucial.

Entonem contributes to the control of thrips, but only when applied under the right conditions. For instance the moisture content of the soil should be high and the soil should be kept moist for the first 2 weeks after application. Soil temperature should be between 14 and 33 °C. For the complete directions for use click here.

Advantages of Entonem

• Highly effective
• No resistance issues
• High quality and easy to apply
• Compatible with natural enemies and many pesticides

Mode of action

Once a nematode has found and penetrated a larva/pupa through a body opening, it begins its’ destructive work. In order to convert the larvae/pupae into food, the nematode releases a symbiotic bacteria. The bacteria spread throughout the larvae, multiplying rapidly while feeding on the host tissue and converting it into a form easily taken up by the nematodes. The infected larvae die within a few days, but the beneficial nematodes continue to multiply and develop in the host larvae. As soon as the nematodes are in the infectious third stage, they leave the old host and start searching for new targets.

Damage

Thrips pierce the cells of the plants and suck out the contents. This causes silver-grey patches with small dark green dots (excreta). In cases of severe damage, the leaves may even dry out completely which reduces the productivity of the plant. Thrips are also notorious for the transmission of viruses. The best-known virus transmitted by thrips is the tomato spotted wilt virus (TSWV). Entonem is also effective against larvae of various diptera species such as sciarid flies.
 

Website: http://www.koppert.com

Published: March 7, 2013