Hypoaspis miles (Stratiolaelaps scimitus) – 10,000 (HYPO)

Hypoaspis miles are a soil dwelling predatory mite species, this predatory mite is very effective at targeting particularly sciarid fly larvae also known as fungus gnats that cause damage to roots and spread diseases. This species will also control thrips pupae that drop off the leaf to pupate, for example Western Flower thrips. Hypoaspis miles is an important species to have in as part of a programme especially when running with composting based soil mixes, this is due to the higher levels of organic material compared to just coco or rockwool. This presents a higher degree of food availability for the sciarid adults that feed on fungus and the by products of decaying organic matter. This greater presence of food availability for the adults in living soil systems can present a higher pressure from this pest species and puts greater emphasis on the requirement to have a comprehensive biological strategy in place.

Hypoaspis miles 10,000 predatory mites

Activity / Control

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. This species should be applied as part of a programme of control before or at the early signs of pest establishment. As a curative control, if sciarid or thrips populations have established look to use Entonem- nematode species Steinernema feltiae to bring populations down quickly and follow up with an application of Entomite, Stratiolaelaps scimitus or Hypoaspis to keep pest levels under control. 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 Hypoaspis is 12°C. Apply as soon as possible after receipt. If necessary, the product can be stored for 1-2 days. Storage temperature 10-15°C/50-59°F. Storage conditions In the dark, bottle horizontally.

Application Method

Application: Turn and shake the cardboard cylinder gently before use Spread material evenly on soil

Application Rate

The dosage of Hypoaspis 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 100-500 per m2/release.