BIOLOGICAL PEST CONTROL

Biological control is a natural method used to protect plants by employing living organisms, such as ladybirds and other beneficial insects, to stop pests that damage crops without using chemical poisons. For more than 15 years PASAM Agrumi has supplied beneficial insects to its member farms completely free of charge and has also organized their release in the fields. The insect used most frequently is Aphytis melinus, a parasitoid used against California red scale, a citrus pest that attacks branches, leaves, fruit and bark and can cause severe damage and threaten the life of the tree. After releasing beneficial insects, we also help create suitable refuges for them by establishing green areas, hedges and small shrubs on member farms. These micro-habitats give our tiny allies a place to live. In this way we reduce the impact on fauna, flora and water resources in the surrounding environment while also protecting bees, butterflies and other pollinators.