Amblyseius fallacis - establish this spider mite predator in your crops. Description Amblyseius fallacis is a generalist predatory mite that feeds on spider mites, russet mites, rust mites, broad mites and other small arthropods. Unlike other predatory mites, this biocontrol agent can survive low temperatures and remain in areas with low levels of spider mites as it feed on an array of pests, especially their eggs, as well as pollen. It is best used preventatively. Adults of this North American native have tan to light orange, pear-shaped bodies (0.5 mm long), and shiny long legs. Immature predators are cream colored or semi-transparent, and eggs are oval (0.3 mm long). A. fallacis is used with greenhouse peppers, field strawberries, raspberries, currants and mint. In BC, Washington, and Oregon, IPM programs for field berry crops are based on using A. fallacis as the primary control for spider mites. Life Cycle Development from egg to adult takes 7-9 days at 70°F (21°C) to 3 days at 32°C. Adult females lay 1-5 eggs per day, for 26-60 eggs total in their 14-62 day life span. Eggs are oval and twice the size of TSSM eggs. Female A. fallacis feed on 2-16 spider mites per day. Adults enter diapause in response to 14 hours of daylength or less (temperature dependent). Application Rates .2 to 3 mites per sq ft depending on pest severity. 7,000 to 10,000 per acre for strawberries and other field crops. Instructions for Use Fallacis will usually become established in the crop after one to two introductions, where they remain if mites or pollen are available for food. Placing higher numbers of predators on the prevailing upwind side of the crop will increase their dispersal. These natural enemies are people and pet friendly and a natural and sustainable approach to pest control without the use of harmful pesticides. A. fallacis is more resistant to pesticides than most biological controls. They feed and reproduce at lower temperatures than many other predator mites - 48°-85°F, with a relative humidity over 50%. Order deadline: Orders must be received by Noon on Friday PT for shipment the following week. Questions? Call us at (360) 656-6680. See order deadlines & shipping and release instructions for details. FOR YOUR FILES: Amblyseius fallacis Tech Sheet
