fly control

FLY CONTROL BY

BIOLOGICAL METHODS

Fly control by Biological methods are those which enhance and preserve naturally occurring populations of predators and parasites of flies.

The objective of biological control is to encourage naturally-occurring populations of predators and parasites to thrive. This includes the cultural step of making manure as dry and as hospitable as possible.

Using biological control, manure removal is carried out according to a staggered schedule, so that the predator and parasite populations are not decimated.

Removing portions of the manure over a period of time, preferably in the cooler season when fly numbers are lowest, preserves a portion of the parasite and predator population to reinvade the new manure.

Sometimes attempts are made to augment naturally occurring parasite populations by releasing additional individuals.Such augmentation can result in increases in the parasitism rate and reduced number of flies. However, at this time it is not possible to set quantitative guidelines as to when to release and what species and numbers to use under varying conditions.

If augmentation is attempted, it should only be carried out after taking the cultural and manure management steps necessary to maximize the naturally occurring populations of predators and parasites.

Residual surface treatments should be directed to those areas of the structures where adult flies are observed to rest. These are usually partitions and upper parts of the structure where flies rest for long periods at night.