Abstract: A method and apparatus for rapidly loading small particulate matter such as insect (e.g., lacewing) eggs into containers for uniformly distributing the eggs into individual units of the containers. The apparatus uses a fluid dispensing system to move the eggs from a holder to the containers located below. The method of the present invention provides a volumetrically measured quantity of eggs to be distributed to the individual units of the containers.

Abstract: A backpack sprayer for spraying arthropods or arthropod eggs, such as beneficial mites or beneficial insect eggs, or insect eggs containing parasitoids, directly onto plants is disclosed which uses excess air generated by a compressor to produce a coarse or fine spray of an aqueous suspension containing the arthropods or eggs as they exit from a spray gun. A stir bar magnet in a spray tank, controlled by a magnetic stirrer motor, keeps the arthropods or eggs evenly suspended in an aqueous solution. The sprayer provides an economical and alternative strategy for the delivery of arthropods such as beneficial mites and eggs to agricultural commodities.

Abstract: A device for spraying beneficial insect eggs directly onto plants is disclosed which has an air system, an aqueous solution system, a compressed air system for pressurization and agitation, a pressure release system, a tank assembly, and a remote control assembly. There are three different air systems suitable for spraying trees, plants of moderate height or row crops; two different aqueous solution systems, one for spraying moderate height plants and row crops and one for spraying trees. The device provides an economical and alternative strategy for the delivery of beneficial insect eggs to agricultural commodities.

Abstract: Devices for loading beneficial insect eggs are disclosed which have a string supply, an egg receptacle, and a provision for applying glue. The devices provide an economical and alternative strategy for the delivery of beneficial insect eggs to agricultural commodities.