There are many species of beneficial insects and spiders that inhabit cotton crops. Some beneficials, such as ladybird beetles, are easily recognised, while others are often overlooked. One species that is easily overlooked is the tiny Trichogramma wasp. This incredible little wasp is smaller than a pin head, but can single-handedly prevent heliothis (Helicoverpa spp.) from causing serious damage to crops. Trichogramma only attack the egg stage of hosts and are known as egg parasitoids. They are very important biological control agents because they kill heliothis before they hatch and start feeding on your crop.
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