Neoseiulus fallacis Mite Predators

Neoseiulus fallacis is an excellent general predator mite for control of many different types of mites in hotter, drier situations than other predatory mite species can handle. Particularly recommended for spider mites on roses and vegetable crops in greenhouses, this predator can also help suppress cyclamen mite in strawberry fields and broad mite in greenhouses. N. fallacis has been found to be more effective than N. californicus in northern climates on Mint, Hops and Strawberries. It can also be effective in orchards against the European red mite and the two-spotted spider mite, as it tolerates higher temperatures and lower humidities than P. persimilis.

Appearance: Adults are pear-shaped and slightly smaller than the European red mite adult. They are white until they feed after which they take on the coloration of their prey (usually red or brown). The eggs are pear shaped, almost transparent, but slightly larger than the round European red mite eggs. The nymphs are also transparent and difficult to see without a microscope. Of the five N. fallacis life stages, only the 1^st nymphal stage is six legged. All other post-egg stages have eight legs.

Life Cycle: Mated adult females may overwinter in plant crevices or other protected areas if prey is available in the fall. They emerge as early as bloom, but in reduced numbers due to heavy winter mortality. N. fallacis increases in number rapidly and adults become numerous by July or August. They live about 20 days and lay an average of 40-60 eggs. Eggs are laid along the ribs of the undersides of leaves.

Relative Effectiveness: Because N. fallacis is a voracious consumer of mites and because its population increases quickly in relation to its prey, it can overtake an expanding pest population. It develops into the adult stage in about one third the time required by other mite predators. However, when N. fallacis has reduced the prey population, it will leave the area in search of more mites, whereas other mite predators survive on alternate foods.

N. fallacis are packed 1,000 per 1 oz. shaker bottle. They are mixed with a humidified inert granular material (corn cob grits). This material helps preserve the predators and aids in distributing the predators on the plants. Highly perishable, they 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. Release instructions will be included in shipment.

Release Rates for N. fallacis

Comments: Spring releases are usual, but fall releases should be considered. They are effective in a preventive capacity.

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