Our Services
Research and applied science
Innovation and scientific rigour are core to our values. We have extensive research experience with a proven track record of discovery, scientific excellence and peer-reviewed publications.
Invertebrate pest management research
We are Botswana’s insect experts. We have significant knowledge and experienceacross a variety of fields including integrated pest management research and advice, pest monitoring and surveillance, biological control and invertebrate biology and ecology research.
Invertebrate identification and taxonomy
Correct identification of invertebrates is crucial for understanding species biodiversity, species’ impacts, integrated pest management, and the development of stronger biosecurity surveillance. Through our laboratory facilities and our team’s expertise, invertebrates morphologically under a microscope and relay that information back to the concerned farmer.
Invertebrate field surveys
Through fieldwork we can investigate and study the ecology and population dynamics for a variety of invertebrate species.
Our field work supports conservation, pest management and biosecurity efforts, and includes plant host surveys, and assessing natural enemies of pests.
Science education and extension
We are passionate about explaining our research and current knowledge so as to educate and empower our audiences and ensure that valuable scientific studies andinsights don’t just sit on the shelf.
Industry training
Insect Factory is experienced in developing and running a variety of training workshops and Field Days that are tailored to the needs of the audience and clients. Our workshops and Field Days are hands-on focused to ensure that farmers, government personnel or researchers – are able to apply the skills and knowledge provided in the field. Topics include:
- beneficial insect identification
- Crop Monitoring
- Integrated Pest Management.Resources
Collecting and sending invertebrate samples
Mites
Collecting Mites samples
- Collect a bulk of >50 individual mites per paddock/area if possible
- If possible, collect a bulk of >50 individual mites perpaddock/area.
- Use a hard rigid plastic container. A container with a screw lid is best. To order a collection kit (container, labels and postage pack), contact Insect Factory at grahamhall1952@gmail.com or +267 71 777 467.
- Place a layer of paper towel at the base of the plastic container.
- Place a small amount of vegetation on top of the paper towel to cover it roughly.
- Collect the mites from the paddock or area by tapping mite-infested vegetation over the plastic container so that they fall into it. If they are on the soil surface, you could try scooping them up with a spoon.
- Take a piece of paper towel, position it over the opening of the plastic container, and securely close the lid on top of the paper towel. Make sure the paper towel is larger than the container to create a seal between the lid and the container, otherwise, mites may escape.
- Wrap the plastic container in bubble wrap if you have some.
Aphids
Collecting Aphid samples
- Collect a bulk of >50 individual aphids per paddock/area.
- At each paddock/area, directly remove (cut)leaves that contain aphids, leaving the aphids undisturbed.
- Collect a bulk of >50 individual aphids per paddock/area. ase do not use a take-away container or in
zip lock bags as these can break or squash in the post. - Excessive plant matter can lead to high moisture levels, which may kill the aphids. Avoid over-packing the container
with plant matter and place a piece of tissue paper or paper towel into the
container to absorb excess moisture.
Moths and their parasitoids
Moths and their parasitoids
- The easiest way to collect moth samples in the field is by collecting the egg masses from the underside of the leaf. You can collect the larvae (caterpillars) and pupae which can be put in with the eggs.
- Collecting a mixture of larvae, pupae, and eggs ensures high survival rates.
- Collect a bulk of >20 individual larvae per paddock/area.
- Aim to collect 50+ eggs from leaves and place them in a clear, non-crushable plastic container with some leaf material in case eggs hatch during transit. (The eggs are brittle so aim to keep the egg masses on the same leaf tissue you
found them on). - You can add larval collections in the same container, and make sure there is enough vegetation for them to feed on while in transit.
- Aim to collect 50+ eggs from leaves and place them in a clear, non-crushable plastic container with some leaf material in case eggs hatch during transit. (The eggs are brittle so aim to keep the egg masses on the same leaf tissue you
- Scrunch up some paper towels and add them to the container to absorb excess moisture.
- Place a sheet of paper towel over the top of the container and close the lid over it.
