Unique aphid predator Micromus-System wins GreenTech Innovation Award

14 June 2022
Micromus-System, Biobest’s unique new biocontrol tool which feeds on all common aphid species found in protected crops, has won the GreenTech Innovation Award for the most revolutionary idea.  

“We’re delighted to win this award which recognises the key elements - research, development, and innovation – that are helping future proof the sector and contribute to its sustainability,” says Ines De Craecker, Biobest product manager for beneficial insects.  
“A generalist predator - and the first commercial brown lacewing in Europe - Micromus-System is set to become a cornerstone of aphid control programmes. At a time when the industry is looking to minimise use of chemical crop protection products, our new product will help strengthed biological control programmes for this ubiquitous pest.”
Both Micromus adults and larvae prey on aphids and are set to play a key role in protected vegetables, soft fruits, ornamentals and medicinal cannabis crops.  Highly voracious, this robust predator lives longer, can withstand lower temperatures compared to other natural enemies and survives on little prey, opening up new possibilities in existing control programmes. 

“While over 15 different aphid species can be found in protected crops, parasitic controls are often species specific,” explains Ines.  “A robust predator, Micromus feeds on all the commonly found aphid species, even challenging ones for which there is currently no commercial parasitoid available. 

“Micromus is complementary and compatible with existing solutions.  To optimise control programmes, we recommend growers implement a strategy combining aphid parasitoids with generalist predators - such as Micromus.”  
Micromus-System is supplied in Biobest’s new 100% biodegradable packaging. Designed to ensure the lacewings arrive in the best possible shape to optimise establishment, this new packaging also simplifies waste management - as it can be left in the crop after introduction.  

Ground-breaking sticky trap monitoring system shortlisted
Trap-Eye™, Biobest’s ground-breaking sticky trap monitoring system making IPM scouting automated, accurate, scalable and affordable, was short listed for the GreenTech Concept Award for the most promising new idea.  With a patent pending, the system is due to come to the market in 2023.
“While Trap-Eye™ didn’t win the Concept Award, this innovation will help growers understand pest dynamics in the greenhouse in detail, without the need to invest time and money on staff training, manual counting or data entry,” explains Sam Gui, Biobest market development manager for high tech IPM. “This innovative system will work equally well in low-tech plastic tunnels as high-tech glasshouses.” 

Unique aphid predator Micromus-System wins GreenTech Innovation Award
Micromus-System, Biobest’s unique new biocontrol tool which feeds on all common aphid species found in protected crops, has won the GreenTech Innovation Award for the most revolutionary idea.  
“We’re delighted to win this award which recognises the key elements - research, development, and innovation – that are helping future proof the sector and contribute to its sustainability,” says Ines De Craecker, Biobest product manager for beneficial insects.  
“A generalist predator - and the first commercial brown lacewing in Europe - Micromus-System is set to become a cornerstone of aphid control programmes. At a time when the industry is looking to minimise use of chemical crop protection products, our new product will help strengthed biological control programmes for this ubiquitous pest.”
Both Micromus adults and larvae prey on aphids and are set to play a key role in protected vegetables, soft fruits, ornamentals and medicinal cannabis crops.  Highly voracious, this robust predator lives longer, can withstand lower temperatures compared to other natural enemies and survives on little prey, opening up new possibilities in existing control programmes. 
“While over 15 different aphid species can be found in protected crops, parasitic controls are often species specific,” explains Ines.  “A robust predator, Micromus feeds on all the commonly found aphid species, even challenging ones for which there is currently no commercial parasitoid available. 
“Micromus is complementary and compatible with existing solutions.  To optimise control programmes, we recommend growers implement a strategy combining aphid parasitoids with generalist predators - such as Micromus.”  
Micromus-System is supplied in Biobest’s new 100% biodegradable packaging. Designed to ensure the lacewings arrive in the best possible shape to optimise establishment, this new packaging also simplifies waste management - as it can be left in the crop after introduction.  
Ground-breaking sticky trap monitoring system shortlisted
Trap-Eye™, Biobest’s ground-breaking sticky trap monitoring system making IPM scouting automated, accurate, scalable and affordable, was short listed for the GreenTech Concept Award for the most promising new idea.  With a patent pending, the system is due to come to the market in 2023. 
“While Trap-Eye™ didn’t win the Concept Award, this innovation will help growers understand pest dynamics in the greenhouse in detail, without the need to invest time and money on staff training, manual counting or data entry,” explains Sam Gui, Biobest market development manager for high tech IPM. “This innovative system will work equally well in low-tech plastic tunnels as high-tech glasshouses.” 

Read more:

Food Syria, AgriTEK Syria and 4P Syria Exhibitions to Drive Agro-Industrial Recovery in Damascus

25 May 2026
At a critical stage in Syria’s recovery, rebuilding the country’s productive sectors—particularly agriculture, food production, and industrial manufacturing—has become an urgent priority. With millions reliant on agriculture for livelihoods and rising demand for food security, processing, and industrial capacity, the need for investment, technology, and international partnerships is accelerating. »

Food Africa and interpack MEA 2026 to Drive Trade and Industrial Growth Across Africa and the Middle East

25 May 2026
Building on the success of previous editions, the co-located platform has welcomed more than 1,200+ exhibitors and 37,000+ trade visitors from over 160 countries, reinforcing its position as a key meeting point for global industry stakeholders. Africa’s food and agribusiness market is projected to reach USD 1 trillion annually by 2030, driven by population growth, urbanization, and rising demand. Egypt, strategically positioned at the »

Biodegradable and Compostable Expo 2026

21 May 2026
From 4 to 6 June 2026, India Expo Centre in Greater Noida, Uttar Pradesh (India) will host Biodegradable and Compostable Expo 2026, described as the world’s only exhibition dedicated exclusively to biodegradable, compostable and sustainable products, as well as machinery, raw materials and related industries. The event is organised by the Green Society of India and Indian Exhibition Services. The exhibition creates a common platform for all stakeholders connected with biodegradable, compostable and »
PARTNERS