Koppert Releases New Limonica Ulti-Mite

Dr. Jake Holley

Insect supplier Koppert has announced the release of a new beneficial mite for thrips and whitefly control, expanding the biological control options available to greenhouse growers. This predatory mite, Amblydromalus limonicus, was originally described on citrus plants in California and is native to tropical and subtropical regions of the Americas. As a generalist predator, it's capable of feeding on a broad range of small plant pests, but has shown particularly strong performance against thrips and whiteflies.

One of the key advantages A. limonicus brings to greenhouse production is its tolerance to cooler temperatures. In greenhouse environments as cold as 13C (55F), the mite continues to feed and reproduce, whereas other commonly used predatory mites, such as Amblyseius swirskii, often struggle to remain productive. This makes A. limonicus especially attractive for growers operating in cooler climates or during colder seasons.

Koppert can now supply commercially relevant quantities of this predator in combination with its Ulti-Mite slow-release sachets. These sachets provide a sustained release of mites over time, offering longer-lasting pest control and improved consistency. This approach is particularly valuable during winter months, when greenhouse temperatures are often kept lower and pest pressure can be more difficult to manage with traditional biological control agents. IG