Orius the Minute Pirate Bug – Thrips Control

TARGET PEST: Western Flower Thrips (Frankliniella occidentalis), Onion Thrips (Thrips tabaci)

For Your Files: Orius insidiosus Tech Sheet

• Description
• Application Rates
• Instructions for Use

• Also known as Minute Pirate Bug, Orius insidiosus is a generalist predator that consumes pollen and a variety of species of small, soft-bodied insects including mites, aphids, and small caterpillars. These beneficial insects are most effective for pests with life stages that inhabit flowers (such as flower thrips), as adults are attracted to, and often found in flowers. All stages of Orius move very quickly. The adults are good flyers and move efficiently throughout a greenhouse to locate prey.
• 0.5 – 1 per 10 square feet of canopy
• Release the adults by gently shaking them onto individual plants or by opening the containers in the greenhouse and allowing the biological control agents to disperse. Concentrate release near pest hot spots. Supplying these predators with flowering pollen-rich plants or Ephestia eggs may increase their egg laying and activity. Safe for plants, people and pets. 

Using Thrips Banker Plants, UConn Extension.

Orders for Orius insidiosus must be received by noon on Friday for shipment the following week.  If the deadline is past, please call us and we will help you find a solution ASAP. (360) 656-6680

See order deadlines and shipping information.

Learn about release instructions for beneficial insects.