Atheta Bucket

Atheta — Dalotia coriaria (formerly Atheta coriaria)
Dalotia coriaria, a species of rove beetle, is a highly effective & proven biological control agent for managing fungus gnats and shore flies in greenhouse environments. These beneficial insects deliver reliable control and fit seamlessly into integrated pest management (IPM) programs. Atheta preys on larvae exposed at the media surface and in structural areas such as bench edges, drain lines, and algae patches. Adults can fly, enabling rapid dispersal and coverage beyond initial release points.

Use For
Atheta targets:
Fungus gnats (Sciaridae) — eggs, larvae, pupae
Shore flies (Scatella spp.) — eggs, larvae, pupae
Western flower thrips (Frankliniella occidentalis) — pupae near the media line

Recommend for:
Atheta locates and feeds on hotspots and is great for large area deployment as well as any area where sticky cards show elevated adult activity.

How It Works
Mode of Action: Adults and larvae patrol media surfaces and structural crevices, locating prey by odor cues; Atheta consumes prey entirely.
Behavior: Adults are fast and capable of flight, redistributing themselves through the area in search of prey.
Visual Effect: Atheta circle & hover near prey sites. As Atheta targets soil-dwelling larvae, pest development slows, reducing overall population pressure

Feeding Rates
Adults and larvae consume approximately 10–20 prey per day under optimal conditions.
Feeding varies with prey density, moisture, and media type.

Lifecycle of Dalotia coriaria
Egg to adult: ~3 weeks at 77°F
Adult longevity: ~3 weeks
Females lay ~8 eggs per day for the first two weeks after maturing

Pressure-Based Release Rates (per 10 sq. ft)

Tip: Distribute in multiple small piles across the area for faster contact

Instructions for Use
Before Application:
• Gently rotate the tube several times before opening to evenly distribute beetles and bedding material.
Opening the Tube:
• Locate the marked cut-out on the lid and push to open.
• Rotate the lid cover to the fully open position for controlled application.
Application:
• Shake contents gently onto areas where fungus gnats or shore flies breed:
– Potting media
– Capillary matting
– Algal growth zones
• Distribute Atheta evenly across target areas for maximum coverage.
Monitoring:
• Use fresh yellow sticky traps weekly to monitor pest populations.
Compatibility:
• Avoid soil-incorporated insecticides unless confirmed safe; residues may harm beetles.
Suitability:
• Safe for all greenhouse plants; ideal for diverse ornamental and production environments.

Best Working Conditions
Temperature: Optimal around 77°F
Moisture: Moderate moisture and organic zones (algae, debris) increase prey availability and predation frequency

Product Specifications
Pack Sizes: 1,000 or 5,000 adult beetles
Presentation: 1 L tube (1,000) or 5 L bucket (5,000)

Compatibility Guidance
Compatible with other beneficials
Avoid broad-spectrum insecticides; check chemical compatibility via our Beneficial Insect & Pesticide Compatibility page.

What to Expect
Atheta (Rove beetles) begin hunting immediately after release, moving quickly to locate fungus gnat and shore fly stages. Adults and larvae feed aggressively on eggs, larvae, and pupae, reducing pest pressure as breeding sites are cleaned. Visible improvement typically occurs within 1–2 weeks under production conditions. Works best when combined with nematodes, soil mites, and consistent sticky card monitoring for sustained control.

Recommended IPM Pairings
Entonem (Steinernema feltiae) — for fungus gnat larvae and thrips pupae in the root zone
Entomite M (Stratiolaelaps scimitus) — continuous soil mite pressure on eggs and early instars
Horiver Yellow sticky traps — adult fungus gnat trapping & monitoring

FAQs

Can I store this for later?
Long-term storage, i.e. more than 48 hours, is not recommended. Apply promptly after receipt. Our products are shipped fresh for immediate use to ensure maximum performance. If needed, keep in a cool, dark, dry place for up to 1–2 days; longer holding reduces effectiveness and quality.

How fast do they work?
Adults forage immediately; expect visible trend change in 1–2 weeks. Scout to assess pressure changes and combine with Entonem, Entomite-M and Sticky Traps for increased control.

Are they safe for all plants?
Yes, Atheta coriaria is safe for all greenhouse plants and ornamental species.

Can I combine Atheta with other beneficials?
Yes, they work well with nematodes (Entonem) and soil mites (Entomite M).

Why choose beneficial predators?
Beneficial predators provide a sustainable, long-term approach to pest control:

• No resistance issues: Pests cannot develop resistance to natural predators, eliminating the constant cycle of switching chemical products.
• Easy to scale: As plants grow, predator introductions can be increased without overhauling the program, ensuring consistent results and minimal disruptions.
• Cleaner and safer: Replacing chemical sprays reduces pesticide runoff, protects pollinators, and promotes a more natural growing system.
• Superior quality: At Natural Enemies, we are the insectary. Products are held to the highest standards, ensuring vigorous, effective predators that perform reliably in real-world growing conditions.