Bestico

I first started trialling the Biofly biological fly control system from BESTICO in early 2023. After initially relying on chemical controls, we found this to be increasingly ineffective and costly, I decided to give Biofly a try.

To establish the Biofly population, I had to release predatory flies weekly for nine consecutive weeks in each room. This setup phase was more frequent compared to chemical applications but did not take long, no more than 15-20 mins each release. Our BESTICO consultant was always available to speak and provide backup where necessary.

We had some variations in how each room responded but completed the course and followed up with maintenance releases during the later summer months. It took a full season/year to really establish a viable Biofly population but once established the difference has been impressive.

The system is simple to administer. The product arrives in sachets, which are opened and placed in release stations over the slats. Biofly emerges, heads into the pit below, and starts feeding on pest fly maggots. Over time, these beneficial flies effectively replace the pest flies. Biofly flies behave differently—they tend to stay out of sight below slat level, and they are far less bothersome than pest flies.

Since then, we’ve been able to reduce the dosage and frequency of treatments without compromising the control level. The first room we treated hasn’t needed any additional Biofly releases, yet it maintains great fly control all year round.

One important thing to keep in mind is that when you empty the tanks, it’s important to preserve as many Biofly maggots as possible by keeping a small amount of slurry in the tanks. Overall, I’m pleased with how well Biofly has worked for us and recommend it to anyone looking for a more sustainable, ultimately lower cost approach to pest fly management.