Minute Pirate Bug (Orius tristicolor)
Overview:
- This predator is a true bug & all three life stages are smaller than 0.2” in length
- Adults are oval-shaped, black, and sometimes black and white, with wings
- Immature stages are yellow and brown and do not have wings, can resemble aphids or bed bugs
- Adults lay eggs which hatch and become adults all in three weeks
- Overwinter in dead leaves, bark, trees, etc.
- Many generations per year, active throughout the entire summer
- In the fall, when flowers and pests are less prevalent, they may bite humans
- Bites may cause minor irritation, but are not harmful
- They are often attracted to lighter colors and are more active in hotter weather
- Feed with a straw-like mouthpart
- Prey pests: Mites, thrips, whiteflies & other small insects
Management:
Fostering Beneficial Insect Populations:
- Plant a diverse mix of flowers that bloom throughout the season
- Plant native species
- Choose flowers with ample nectar and pollen
- Asters, yarrow, anemones, milkweed, dogwood, serviceberries
- Plant with organic matter and leaf litter
- Avoid over-weeding
- Allow some amount of aphids to be present
Pesticide Impacts/Considerations:
- Insecticides can kill predators & parasitoids & disrupt their behavior, reducing their ability to navigate, find food, and mate
- Often exposed through contaminated food sources (nectar or pollen) or through encountering residues on leaves or flowers
- When pests are exposed, beneficial insects are exposed
- Applicators MUST follow label instructions for in-bloom applications for any insecticide
- Spray only when necessary
Resources:
Beneficial Insects of the Home Garden – RCE Ocean County
Disclaimer – Materials do not cover all possible control scenarios and are intended for licensed professionals. Tradenames do not imply endorsement and are used as examples. You must strictly follow the label for each compound prior to use. Rutgers is not responsible form is used materials or damages thereof. The label is the law. Labels will provide detailed information on use and restrictions. Additionally, application intervals, compatibility, surfactant use, PHI, PPE, important and other key information is described in detail. Always discuss treatments with your local agents. Note: Neonicotinoids can only be legally applied in commercial agriculture settings by licensed applicators. Guidelines and recommendations made in this presentation are specific to the state of New Jersey.