Objective: USDA-ARS is looking for an industrial partner to assist in developing and commercializing nutritional supplements for artificial insect diets, and in developing an egg-collecting device for the predatory bug Orius insidious (O. insidiosus), a general predator of small insects and other arthropods.

Overview: ARS researchers have identified components from insect tissues that significantly enhance the productiveness of O. insidiosus, and possibly other predaceous insects. The researchers have also developed a device that collects eggs from female O. insidiosus, which could eliminate the need for using plant material in mass rearing O. insidiosus. This technology could greatly reduce production costs and facilitate the use of artificial diets. These discoveries require further development for commercialization, so industrial support and collaboration is required.

Related Technology: ARS has filed a patent application on the artificial diet titled, "Fecundity-Promoting Factor for the Insidiosus Flower Bug Reared on Artificial Diet," Patent Application S.N. 10/721,881, filed on November 26, 2003.

Industry Type: ARS is looking for a commercial partner that wishes to explore innovative technologies to mass-produce beneficial insects for controlling plant pests. The ideal partner will have an active interest in patenting and licensing the inventions described above, and is currently engaged in insect rearing activities, which will directly benefit from such technologies.

Where: Southern Atlantic Area; USDA-ARS Behavior and Biocontrol Research Unit; Center for Medical, Agricultural, and Veterinary Entomology in Gainesville, Florida.

Laboratory Mission: This Research Unit describes, analyzes, and manipulates visual and chemical stimuli that are responsible for insect behaviors, which regulate reproduction, feeding, foraging, and migration. Principles of behavior, physiology, and molecular biology are emphasized, especially in reproduction of pest and beneficial insects. 

If your company is interested in learning more about this opportunity contact our regional Technology Transfer Coordinator:

Don Nordlund
USDA, ARS, OTT
P.O. Box 5677
Athens GA 30604-5677
msa-saa-ttc@saa.ars.usda.gov