Critter problems ... aphids.

[thbjr]

A couple questions about aphid eradication, note I didn't use the word 'control', I want them exterminated! I've found them on a few Drosera (spatulata and capes), and they were in a terrarium with a top dressing of live sphagnum and several other kind of CP's (Pings, FVT's, Sarrs). The terrarium is currently flooded. I'm using the drowning method to start with. I've also read where Aidan recomends Provato (Imidacloprid) as a systemic and contact pesticide. ICPS-bob recomends acephate (Orthene). Now for the questions.
1. I've read 24 hours to 2 week for the drowning method. How long is nessasary?
2. Any CP's that should not be submerged for pest control?
3. With the systemic pesticides, will they hurt live sphagnum?

As a side note, might it be possible to add a "Pest, Disease and Fungus" type of catigory to the forum for these type questions?

Thanks, Tom

[marcel]

1 Since have the option to choose for live young or eggs it is always save to assume there are eggs. In 24 hours all living animals will have drowned, but the eggs would probably survive. Repeating it will be necessary.

2. I wouldn't try it on pings.

3. Pesticides, in this case insecticides, should not hurt spaghnum when used in the prescribed concentration. Orthene is very good, but also very powerful and therefore it is easy to use to much. I have no experience with Provato and most of the time I use repeat spraying with Phyrethrin, which kills on contact. Its more gentle, but won't wipe the aphids out. It keeps things more sort of in balance.

[thbjr]

Thanks Marcel, I'll be looking for some insecticide this evening.

...on a side note, good to hear from the Netherlands. I lived in Amsterdam for 4 1/2 years from '92-'96.

Tom

[glider14]

marcel said:

2. I wouldn't try it on pings.

or Nepenthes