Dr. Bugs

Dr. Bugs: What are sublethal effects?

Answer: The topic of sublethal effects is complex, so I will provide an overview. Insecticides are used to manage or maintain insect pest populations ... more »

Dr. Bugs: Challenges of biological control agents

Answer: Greenhouse producers should understand that BCAs may not be effective in managing insect and/or mite pests on all plants. [caption id="at... more »

Dr. Bugs: Life cycles of insect and mite pests

Answer: It’s important to understand the biology and ecology of insect and mite pests so you can manage populations below plant damaging levels. ... more »

Dr. Bugs: Biological control agent of Western flower thrips

Answer: The predatory mite you are referring to is Neoseiulus, also known as Amblyseius cucumeris. Neoseiulus cucumeris can be released into greenhous... more »

Dr. Bugs: Stratiolaelaps scimitus

The Dr. Bugs column helps GPN readers answer questions. In this column, Raymond Cloyd addresses biological control agents and information on fungus gn... more »

Dr. Bugs: Can plants influence susceptibility to insecticides?

Answer: You ask a great question. The primary mechanism by which plants can affect insect pests susceptibility to insecticides, or influence the toxic... more »