News » 10.10.2025 - Breakthrough in large-scale production of a complex predatory mite

Innovation in biological crop protection is central to Koppert. A striking example of this is the successful upscaling of Amblydromalus limonicus, better known under the product name Limonica. This predatory mite is exceptionally effective against various insect pests, but is considered one of the most difficult species to produce. Thanks to a combination of in-depth knowledge, technical breakthroughs, and strategic collaboration, Koppert has succeeded in making Limonica available in commercial volumes. We are the only company in the world to do so.

A predatory mite with exceptional potential
Limonica is distinguished by its broad diet, high consumption capacity, and rapid reproduction. "Technically speaking, it is one of the best predatory mites we know," says Marjon Diender, Lead Rearing Techniques at Koppert. "But it places extremely high demands on its living environment. It does not tolerate disturbances, needs space, and only accepts the best food. It is a diva. And that makes its production complex."

From unstable produce to robust upscaling
The challenge was not only in the rearing itself, but especially in scaling up to commercial volumes during peak periods. "We have been working on this since we started with Limonica in 2012. The breakthrough came two years ago when we submitted a new project to R&D. Together with production, they reviewed the entire process, from the type and quantity of feed to the composition of the rearing medium and the design of new production lines. After implementing these improvements, the results were quickly visible."

Today, we are seeing the concrete results of this breakthrough. The more robust crops and scalable volumes make it possible to make Limonica available worldwide. And in the near future, we expect further optimizations that will support growers even better.

Unique expertise as a distinguishing factor
What sets Koppert apart is its deep-rooted expertise in the production of natural enemies, built up since its foundation in 1967. "Those years of experience form the basis of everything we do," says Marjon. "Thanks to this accumulated knowledge, combined with the close collaboration between our rearing specialists, dedicated production staff, and R&D, we are now able to successfully produce and deliver Limonica on a large scale."

The importance of patents for innovation and reliability
Tom Groot, responsible for the patent process, emphasizes why Koppert has also protected its innovative strength with patents. "The patent is not only legal protection, but also a key requirement for innovation. Without the exclusive right, we would not have been able to follow this intensive development route. It enables us to continue investing in improvement and upscaling, and offers growers the certainty of an exclusive, reliable product."

Looking ahead: Limonica as the standard in integrated crop protection
Marjon is confident about the future of Limonica. "We have cracked the code. The rearing is good, the volumes are adjustable, and we are ready to support growers worldwide with this powerful, natural solution. Limonica has everything it takes to become an established player in integrated crop protection."
 

Source: www.floraldaily.com

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