Delfin is a natural biological larvicide that is highly effective for the management of lepidopteran larvae.
Delfin® is a granule formulation of Bacillus thuringiensis subspecies kurstaki strain SA-11 solids, spores and lepidopteran active toxins. Delfin® is registered for the suppression of a wide range of lepidopteran pests and is a valuable tool in IPM programs with regards to resistance and residue management.
Delfin® must be eaten by the larvae to be effective. Since Delfin® is most effective against small, newly hatched larvae, an early scouting program to determine early infestations is recommended. After consuming a lethal dose larvae stop eating within an hour, but may remain on the foliage until they die, usually within several days. Affected larvae move more slowly and tend to become shrivelled and discoloured before dying.
Registered uses table:
| Pest | Crop type | Dose rate |
| African Bollworm (Helicoverpa armigera) | Lettuce | General application rate is 1kg/ha. Apply with detection of pest eggs and continue every 7 – 10 days. |
| Tuta absoluta | Tomato |
Herewith a summary of their key reasons why the Andermatt Madumbi team of experts recommend including Delfin® in your biological IPM toolkit:
1 – Proven efficacy
Dr Brendon Neumann, Business Innovations Lead
Biological insecticides and specifically Bt’s (biolarvicides based on Bacillus thuringiensis) are among the first commercialised biocontrol actives. They are well established and recognised for their success, globally.
2 – Unique mode of action
Sias Leipoldt, Business Development Lead
Delfin’s unique mode of action is different from synthetic chemistry making it an ideal tool for resistance management and inclusion into IPM programs.
3 – User friendly
Helgard van Rooyen, Biospecialist South
Delfin® is easy to use. It’s versatile application, excellent compatibility and stable 2 year shelf life ensure that it is easy and effective when incorporated into existing spray programs.
4 – Target specific
Mark Hutton, Biospecialist KZN
The active compounds produced by Bt in Delfin® are specifically toxic to lepidopteran larvae. This ensures that the application of Delfin® has no effect on non-target beneficial insects.
5 – Versatile and adaptive biological control
De Wet Steenkamp, Biospecialist South
Bt is a beneficial soil bacteria that is highly adaptive to different environments. ‘We are achieving consistent results with Delfin® across a wide range of crops, as well as across a wide range of regions and environments in our individual areas.’
6 – Non-toxic, completely natural and OMRI listed
Wilma Mac Pherson, Biospecialist – North
Delfin® is safe for applicators, consumers and the environment. It has no withholding period and can safely be used in organic operations.
Registration details:
Delfin® contains Bacillus thuringiensis subsp. kurstaki strain SA-11. Reg. No. L9761, Act No. 36 of 1947. Andermatt Madumbi (Pty) Ltd, Postnet Suite 20, Private Bag X6011, Hilton, 3245. Reg. No. 2009/020798/07.