novel biological control agents
- Subject: novel biological control agents
- From: F* V*
- Date: Wed, 23 Jan 2002 11:21:06 -0500
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The December 2001 issue of the German nursery magazine
Deutsche Baumschule, p. 23, reports on an unconventional
biological method employed by Boereboom nurseries (NL-5657
AD Eindhoven, The Netherlands) for controlling mice and insects in their
propagating greenhouses. Boereboom is a contract producer
of rooted cuttings. The greenhouses cover 70,000 sq. ft. (6500 sq. m.);
cuttings are rooted in plastic tunnels in the greenhouses.
For the past two years insects (mostly aphids and spiders)
have been effectively controlled by 55 Green Anoles (Anolis
carolinensis, family: Iguanidae), a species of lizard native to the
south-eastern United States.
In May 2001 the insect control team was joined by two Red Corn
Snakes (Elaphe guttata, family: Columbridae), a species native
to the south-eastern United States. Corn
Snakes are non-poisonous, nocturnal constrictors, who do not pose a
threat to humans. According to the report, one snake could control the
rodent population in the greenhouses effectively.
From information on various websites we
gather that Green Anoles and Red Corn Snakes are not uncommonly kept as
pets.
We are wondering whether any growers have employed
their skills in biological pest control programmes.
Freek & Ina Vrugtman
CARLISLE Ontario CANADA Email <v*@interlynx.net> |
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