Spider Mite Control-Neoseiulus californicus predatory mite slow release

Neoseiulus fallacis can prevent and control a number pest mites in a multitude of conditions. Some of the species they can impact include: the two-spotted mite (Tetranychus urticae); the carmine red mite (T. cinnabarinus); a two-spotted mite relative (T. evansi); the European red mite (Panonychus ulmi); the citrus red mite (P. citri); the southern red mite (Oligonychus ilicis); the six-spotted mite (Eotetranychus sexmaculatus); the Pacific mite (T. pacificus). Moreover, these predators may offer some control of the privet mite (B. obovatus), cyclamen mites (Phtyodromus pallidus), broad mites (Polyphagotarsenomus latus) and tomato russet mites (Aculops lycopersici), and other species.

HOST PEST: Two spotted spider mites (Tetranychus urtichae), Pacific Mites (Tetranychus pacificus), European red mites (Panonychus ulmi), Bank's grass mite.

HOST PLANT: Fruit trees, strawberries, corn, hops, mint, other field crops

LIFE STAGES: Egg, Larvae, Protonymph, Deutonymph, and Adult

ENVIRONMENT: Does best in moderate to cooler humid conditions, but will also tolerate warmer temperatures

PESTICIDES: Susceptible to pesticides. Pyrethroids are highly toxic. Field tolerance will vary with spray timing, application methods, weather and crop. Avoid spraying crop one week before or after releasing predators. Some materials may be toxic to predators for up to four weeks.

STORAGE: Highly perishable, should be used immediately upon delivery. If storage is absolutely necessary, refrigerate at 50° F. (6°-10° C). Not to exceed 2 days, to minimize mortality.

AUGMENTATION: Release rates are being developed. Release at least one per plant or one per square foot in greenhouses at the first sign of spider-mites. Later releases will require much higher numbers to be effective.

NOTES: This predatory mite disperses quickly. Neoseiulus fallacis is known to control European Red Mite below economic thresholds in fruit tree orchards. it is also being successfully used in mint fields.

Mesoseiulus longipes is similar to P. persimilis but can tolerate lower humidity (40% at 70 degrees F). M. longipes are effective in temperatures up to 100 degrees F, although a comparable increase in humidity is required. Apply these predators in warm greenhouses and interiorscapes with artificial lighting. The lifespan of the adults, the form in which they are shipped, is 34 days. Release rates indoors, 3/sq. ft. bi-weekly, 1-2 times; outdoors, 5,000-20,000/acre, bi-weekly, 1-2 times.