Mesoseiulus longipes Mite Predator
Control spider mites in warm, dry climates! Similar to P. persimilis, but effective in lower humidities. Mesoseiulus longipes hunts Spider Mites (Mult) and Two-Spotted Spider Mite (Tetranychus urticae).
Identification:
Mesoseiulus longipes are pear-shaped predatory mites measuring roughly 0.5mm in length. Coloration varies from beige to amber/red. Females are the predominant sex with a ratio of 4 females to 1 male.
Preferred food:
M. longipes is frequently used for control of spider mites in hot, dry greenhouses as they consume egg, nymph and adult stages. Similar to P. persimilis, M. longipes feed faster than other mite predators.
Optimal Conditions:
Use these beneficial mites with in warm conditions with moderate humidity (65-90 °F, RH 40-60%). M. longipes are effective in temperatures up to 100 °F, although a comparable increase in humidity is required. Apply these predators in warm greenhouses and interiorscapes with artificial lighting or in outdoor settings with suitable conditions. The lower humidity needs of M. longipes make it ideal for controlling spider mite infestations on taller plants in greenhouses.
Release rates:
1,000 per 300 sq. ft. (roughly 3 per sq. ft.) bi-weekly, 3-5 times
Mesoseiulus longipes do not do well in outdoor settings. Release should be made indoors or in greenhouses for best results.
Shelf Life:
Use within 18 hours of receipt.
Life Cycle:
Females lay up to 54 eggs over their lifespan concentrating egg laying on spider mite webbing and in high density pest populations. Eggs hatch within 1-4days, depending on environmental conditions, and mature through five life stages: egg, larvae, protnymph, deutonymph and adult. Maturation to adulthood takes up to 8 days and adults live for another 30 days or so.
M. longipes are shipped in loose media designed to be broadcast directly onto foliage of spider mite infested plants. Concentrate releases on high-density pest populations first and foremost. Spread as evenly as possible throughout the growing area for preventative releases.
Avoid applying to flowers as the medium can stick to pollen, nectar and/or resin. It may be beneficial in hot, dry environments to mist down plants prior to releasing M. longipes. This will increase the relative humidity in the areas surrounding the plants and can help mite predators adapt rapidly to their new environment. DO NOT spray insecticides after releasing M. longipes.
Environment:
Crops, Nursery, Greenhouse, Grow Room, Hydroponics, Aquaponics, Pond & Environment, Interiorscapes, and Container Plants.
Storage:
If not releasing immediately, keep in a cool dark place out of direct sunlight. Do not refrigerate.
Shipping Restrictions:
- Ships via Overnight methods only. This does not take processing time into account. Overnight Shipping refers to the time frame for delivery after the shipment date.
- Orders ship Monday-Thursday only.
- Orders will be processed for the next available shipping date. Processing can take 24-48 hours.
- Cannot Be Shipped To: HI, PR, VI, GU, AS, or PW.
What's In The Package:
M. longipes are shipped as adults ready to be released upon delivery.