They are noted for their ability to hunt in conditions where prey is scarce. Every active life stage of californicus is predatory. They will feed on all life stages of spider mites, including their eggs – eating an average of 5 prey per day. Adults prefer eating larvae and nymphs of spider mites.

The larvae mainly eat spider mite eggs. Strong preference for two-spotted spider mites and feeds on other pest mites, thrips larvae, and pollen. Most effective at low prey density. Less sensitive to warm and dry conditions. It also tolerates colder conditions. Can survive with no food for extended periods.

Do not store predatory mites for more than 8 hours.

Hold at a moderately humid 55-65°F until ready to release.

Do not refrigerate.

Misting the foliage of the plants to be treated just before release can be helpful but is not required. Avoid releasing in the heat of the day. Hold the container they’re in on its side for at least half an hour in a warm area before release – allowing the mites to warm up and evenly distribute themselves. To release, gently rotate/tumble the container to distribute the mites evenly within the carrier. Next, open the container in the crop and gently tap out the californicus evenly onto the foliage of the plants in the area to be treated. Concentrate their bulk at release points on or near the most heavily infested plants.

Leave the container in the treatment area 24 hours after release to ensure all mites have dispersed.

They can sometimes be found on the foliage or flowers of the crop with diligent scouting. Seeing reduced populations of pest mites is the best way to measure what these predators are doing as far as effectiveness.

Not advisable to use for moderate or heavy spider mite outbreaks.

Best used as prevention or when spider mite levels are still low. For outbreaks, Phytoseiulus persimilis should be used. 

Live-Product: Beneficial Insectary strives to guarantee the live delivery of the freshest organisms to our customers. We offer replacements or credits for any compromised shipments to our customers that report any issues or concerns within 24 hours. These issues or concerns must be relayed before releasing any organisms that are suspected of having viability issues. Please do not discard the product. You may be requested to return the shipment for further analysis.

Establishment of BCAs in Crop Settings: Many variables can negatively or positively impact BCA and pest populations in various crops we work with (pesticide applications, watering practices, improper storage methods, cultural/physical/mechanical controls, etc.). Some beneficial organisms require a steady pest presence as a food source to build their population. Others may require alternate food sources, such as pollen or nectar as an example. While other BCAs have specific photoperiod requirements for success. Due to these variables, we cannot guarantee the long- or short-term establishment of the BCAs we sell after the release of the organism(s). We will not offer refunds, discounts, or other credits on products that have already been released. Please adhere to our “Live-Product” disclosure.