Aphidius ervi is a larger parasitic wasp (4–5 mm) specialized in controlling potato aphids, glasshouse aphids, and other large-bodied aphid species. Best used early in the pest cycle, A. ervi helps growers protect crops in greenhouses, nurseries, and outdoor environments. Because of its size, it is highly effective against aphid species that smaller parasitoids such as A. colemani cannot manage, making it an ideal complement in integrated pest management programs.
How It Works
Adult females seek out larger aphids and lay a single egg inside the host. As the larva develops, the aphid dies and hardens into a leathery brown mummy. Adults emerge by chewing a hole through the mummy and immediately begin searching for new hosts. Beyond parasitism, their presence can reduce feeding and reproduction in surrounding aphids. First visible mummies typically appear within two weeks of release.
Targets These Aphid Species
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Potato Aphid (Macrosiphum euphorbiae)
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Glasshouse Potato Aphid (Aulacorthum solani)
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Green Peach Aphid – Tobacco Variant (Myzus persicae var. nicotianae)
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Pea Aphid (Acyrthosiphon pisum)
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California Laurel Aphid (Euthoracaphis umbellulariae)
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Additional large aphid genera: Sitobion, Schizaphis, Rhodobium
For complete aphid suppression, pair with A. colemani (smaller aphids) or Aphelinus abdominalis (slower-reproducing species).
Ideal Conditions
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Temperature: 65–77°F optimal; reduced activity above 86°F
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Humidity: 60–80% RH
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Sunlight: Avoid direct sun during release
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Flight Capability: Strong fliers, effective at locating prey
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Shelf Life: Use within 18 hours of receipt
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Nutrition: Shipped with a sugar-water feeder for adult survival
Application Instructions
Greenhouse Release
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Open bottle in crop area during morning or afternoon.
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Hold at 45° angle and tap gently to release adults.
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Recap and repeat for 2–4 days until emergence is complete.
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Place bottle in canopy for final emergence.
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Protect from ants.
Field Release
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Release adults near aphid clusters, away from direct sun.
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Sprinkle mummies into shaded release boxes.
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Leave boxes for ~7 days for full emergence.
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Avoid use when temperatures exceed 86°F.
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Protect from ants.
Release Rates
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Preventative: 1 adult per 20–100 sq. ft.
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Hotspots: Increase rate up to 5×
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250-count bottle treats 5,000–25,000 sq. ft.
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Frequency: Weekly releases for at least 3 weeks
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Monitor for brown mummies before pruning
Where to Use
Shipping & Storage
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Ships via overnight service (Tuesdays only)
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Order by Wednesday for following Tuesday shipment
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Minimum 6-day processing time
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Packaged with ice for safe delivery
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Store in cool, shaded area (do not refrigerate)
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Use within 18 hours of receipt
Quick Tips
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Release early for best results
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Look for mummies ~2 weeks post-release
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Leave pruned leaves with mummies in crop for continued emergence
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Protect all releases from ants
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Pair with A. colemani for smaller aphid species
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Avoid releases during extreme heat (>86°F)
