Entomite M Predatory Mite

Scientific name: Stratiolaelaps scimitus.

Stratiolaelaps scimitus, formerly know as Hypoaspis miles, lives in the top half inch of soil. The small light brown mite is a natural predator of fungus gnat eggs, larvae, pupae, the snail parasite Riccardoella limacum, grain mites, reptile mites, springtails, thrips pupae, and other small insects in the soil.
Both Stratiolaelaps scimitus nymphs and adults feed on soil inhabiting pests, consuming up to five prey per day and may survive on algae and/ or plant debris when insects are unavailable.
The soil dwelling predatory mites are well adapted to the moist conditions of greenhouses in a variety of growing media, in bedding plant production, potted plants, and poinsettia stock plants but does not tolerate standing water. Stratiolaelaps scimitus are an effective biopesticide when applied before fungus gnat populations become established or when populations are low and will also attack thrips pupae in the soil, but cannot be relied on alone for thrips control in a commercial greenhouse. It may, however, enhance biological control when used in conjunction with predators feeding on thrips on the foliage. 
Stratiolaelaps scimitus is also commonly used by reptile, amphibian and invertebrate keepers as a preventative or reactive ecological measure to avert and cure mite infestations.

Use:

• As a soil dwelling generalist predatory mite.

• Especially for the control of sciarid fly eggs, larvae, pupae and thrips pupae.
  
• For effective thrips control Entomite M should be combined with generalist predatory mites (Amblydromalus limonicus, Amblyseius andersoni, Amblyseius swirskii, Neoseiulus cucumeris) and/ or Orius spp..
  
  
• Can be used in outdoor field plantations and indoor greenhouse crop cultivation.
  
• For use with soil or hydroponic growing media.

Mode of action:

The predatory mites feed on larvae of sciarid flies, thrips pupae and other soil dwelling insects. The mites appear in and on the soil and at the base of plant stems. The reduction of the infestation level occurs at a slow but steady rate.

Product specifications:

Application:

• Turn and shake the cardboard cylinder gently before use.
• Spread material evenly on soil or planting medium (not on the plastic of e.g. plasticulture or rock wool substrates)
• Can also be applied with automatic blower release systems.
  

Dosage:

The dosage of Entomite M depends on climate, crop, planting medium and pest density and should always be adjusted to the particular situation. Start introduction preventively or as soon as the first pests are detected in the crop. Introduction rates typically range from 100 to 500 per m²/release.

Environmental conditions:

For optimal results the soil has to be moist, rich in organic matter and have a loose structure. The minimum temperature for successful use of Entomite M is 15°C / 59°F.

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.
• Keep the bottle in a horizontal position.

Caution:

• Application of this product can cause sensitization or allergic reactions, take necessary precautions.
• Only use products that are permitted in your country or state and crop.