How to release AtheLiv (Dalotia coriaria, rove beetle)

What’s in the AtheLiv tube?

Predator: Dalotia coriaria

Carrier: Peatmoss and Vermiculite 

How to release Dalotia coriaria:

  • For best results avoid watering for 1-2 hours before and after release. Use open structure soil that is moist and rich with organic matter.
  • Gently rotate the tube to evenly mix the beetles in the carrying material.
  • Disperse beetle mixture evenly on the soil or rockwool slabs and any other place where soil pests can reside.

Can you store Dalotia coriaria?

We recommend releasing the beetles immediately upon arrival.

If storage is necessary dalotia coriaria can be stored for 1-2 days at room temperature in a dark place. Lay the bottle horizontally and avoid any contact with direct sunlight.

How to promote establishment?

  1. Use open structure soil that’s rich in organic matter. The organic matter will serve as a food source for dalotia beetle when there is a shortage of pests.
  1. Keep soil moist and warm (RH of 60% or more and temp of 20-25C). Avoid overwatering as this can create drowning conditions in the soil.

How to spot Dalotia coriaria after releasing?

Dalotia beetles are small, skinny and black with six legs and a short antenna. They are strong flyers and can be seen stuck on yellow sticky traps or the walls of the greenhouse if the population is high. They are easy to see with the naked eye and can be spotted on growing mediums. The larvae are yellow and look like tiny worms. Larvae and adults may be monitored by disturbing the growing mediums and watching for movement. One easy way to monitor soil populations of both Atheta and Fungus Gnats is by placing a slice of potato on top of a growing medium in different areas of the greenhouse and inspecting the underside of it 24-48 hours later.

How long till you see results and how often should you be reordering?

It usually takes dalotia 4-6 weeks to disrupt the pest life cycle. If dalotia is kept under recommended conditions it can last in the soil for the entire crop season. Replacement is recommended 1-2 times a year or whenever growing substrate is changed.