Thripex Plus Predatory Mite

Scientific name: Neoseiulus cucumeris.

The cucumeris mite is a species of predatory mite in the family Phytoseiidae. Used i biological pest control, Neoseiulus cucumeris is an aggressive predator and will feed on the immature stages of western flower thrips Frankliniella occidentalis,  common blossom thrips, onion thrips, melon thrips, chilli thrips, silverleaf whitefly, Asian citrus psyllid and several plant damaging mites in cucumber, some other greenhouse crops and plantations under glass. Neoseiulus cucumeris is most successful with prey feeding on foliage, less so with those in blossoms. Where there is more than one prey species present, it will tend to concentrate on the easiest one to find. In the absence of suitable prey species, this mite can survive and reproduce while feeding on pollen, although survival rates, longevity and fecundity are all inferior. N. cucumeris has produced excellent results in plants with pollen, such as the sweet pepper and much less effective in parthenocarpic crops which do not produce pollen.

Use for:

• Biological control of thrips.
  
• Natural enemy of young larvae of various thrips species.
• Can survive on pollen or other prey.
  

Mode of action:

Predatory mites multiply in the sachet and disperse into the crop over a period of several weeks. They pierce the prey with their sucking mouthparts and suck out the contents.

Product specifications:

Application:

• Hang sachets in sheltered locations in the crop, not exposed to direct sunlight.
• Sachets already have an exit hole.
• Hold sachets by the cardboard strip at the top, to avoid damaging the predatory mites.

Dosage:

The dosage of Thripex Plus depends on climate, crop and pest density and should always be adjusted to the particular situation. Start introduction preventively or as soon as the first pest mites are detected in the crop. Use at least 4000 sachets per ha and hang them evenly spaced in the crop. Release should be repeated after 4 weeks if the pest is not controlled.

Environmental conditions:

• Neoseiulus cucumeris is most effective at temperatures between 15°C and 25°C / 59°F and 77°F.
• It is not effective at temperatures above 30°C / 86°F. 
• Neoseiulus cucumeris is sensitive to relative humidity below 70%.
• Can be combined with Orius spp.. 
• Do not combine with other generalist predatory mites (Amblyseius swirskii, Amblydromalus limonicus, Transeius montdorensis, Amblyseius andersoni). It is difficult to distinguish one species of predatory mite from another in the field.
• Do not use in tomato crops.

Storage:

• Apply as soon as possible after receipt. If necessary, the product can be stored for 1 to 2 days.
• Store at temperatures of 10°C to 15°C / 50°F to 59°F.
• Store in the dark, provide ventilation to prevent CO₂ accumulation.

Caution:

• Pesticides can have direct or indirect effects on biological solutions.
• Only use products that are permitted in your country or state and crop.