Neoseiulus californicus – Versatile Mite Predator for Spider, Broad & Russet Mites

Neoseiulus californicus (formerly Amblyseius californicus) is a versatile predatory mite widely used for preventative and curative control of spider mites, broad mites, cyclamen mites, russet mites, and more. While slower feeding than some predators, this species is long-lived, persistent, and highly effective in low pest populations or as part of an ongoing IPM program. It thrives in a wide range of environments—from greenhouses and grow rooms to orchards and outdoor crops—and can survive on pollen in the absence of prey, ensuring population stability between pest outbreaks. How It Works Adult females lay eggs directly in mite webbing or near pest colonies. Upon hatching, larvae and nymphs feed on all life stages of pest mites—eggs, larvae, and adults. Each predator consumes about 5 mites per day. Though not the fastest eater, N. californicus excels in preventative control where persistence and survival are key. It can subsist on pollen when pest mites are scarce, maintaining presence until pest pressure rises. Targets These Species Two-Spotted Spider Mite (Tetranychus urticae) Broad Mite (Polyphagotarsonemus latus) Cyclamen Mite (Phytonemus pallidus) Russet Mites (Aculops spp.) Brown Almond Mite (Bryobia rubrioculus) Other spider mite species (general) Best used preventatively or combined with faster-feeding predators such as Phytoseiulus persimilis for severe infestations. Ideal Conditions Temperature: 50–105°F (10–40°C) Humidity: 40–60% RH Preferred prey: Two-spotted spider mites Tolerates low humidity, cool temps, and food scarcity Eggs hatch in ~1–2 days, nymphs develop in ~8 days Adults live up to 20 days, continuously feeding Application Instructions Rotate container before opening to distribute mites evenly Shake small portions directly onto foliage, targeting high-pressure areas Rotate during application to prevent settling in carrier media Avoid applying in direct sunlight or onto wet foliage For first-time use, support is available at 1-800-827-2847 Release Rates Greenhouse / Indoor Crops 1–2 mites per sq. ft. 1,000–4,000 per 1,000 sq. ft. Apply biweekly, 2–3 times Outdoor Crops / Orchards / Fields 5,000–20,000 per acre Apply biweekly, 2–3 times Tomatoes and resinous crops may require higher rates Where to Use Greenhouses and grow rooms Outdoor gardens and fields Orchards and vineyards Hydroponic / aquaponic systems Container plants and nurseries Interiorscapes and landscaped zones Storage Store in a cool, dark location (do not refrigerate) Use within 18 hours of receipt Shipped as live adults in loose media for direct foliage release Quick Tips Excellent for preventative mite management across varied environments Survives on pollen, ensuring persistence in low pest conditions Combine with Phytoseiulus persimilis or Neoseiulus fallacis for faster feeding during outbreaks Apply on dry foliage and avoid direct exposure to sun or wind Monitor underside of leaves and webbing for predator activity