Nosema locustae
Quick Facts
- Type
- Microsporidian protozoan
- Source
- Naturally occurring protozoan pathogen of grasshoppers and crickets
- OMRI Listed
- Yes ✓
- Bee Safe
- Yes
- Pet Safe
- Yes
- Residual
- Season-long in grasshopper populations; spreads through cannibalism
- Best For
- Rangeland and large-garden grasshopper suppression as part of a long-term management program.
What Is Nosema locustae?
Grasshoppers consume bait coated with Nosema spores. The protozoan infects the fat body tissues, weakening the insect over weeks. Infected grasshoppers eat less, reproduce less, and die prematurely. Cannibalism among grasshoppers spreads the infection through the population.
Source: Naturally occurring protozoan pathogen of grasshoppers and crickets
What Pests Does Nosema locustae Kill?
Nosema locustae is effective against the following pests:
How to Apply Nosema locustae
Best for: Rangeland and large-garden grasshopper suppression as part of a long-term management program.
Avoid for: Emergency grasshopper swarms. Small gardens where fast control is needed.
Residual activity: Season-long in grasshopper populations; spreads through cannibalism
Safety Profile
| Category | Rating |
|---|---|
| Bee Safety | 🟢 Safe for bees |
| Pet Safety | 🟢 Safe for pets |
| Overall Rating | Safe — Safe for kids, pets, and bees when used as directed |
Why Isn't Nosema locustae Working?
If Nosema locustae isn't delivering results, check these common failure modes:
Very slow — takes 3-6 weeks to see population reduction
Only effective on young nymphs — apply when grasshoppers are small
Density dependent — needs grasshopper populations large enough for cannibalism to spread infection
Not a rescue treatment — plan ahead and apply early in the season
Best Nosema locustae Products
Nolo Bait
BaitNosema-coated wheat bran — broadcast over infested areas
Semaspore Bait
BaitAlternative Nosema bait formulation