Phytoseiulus persimilis – Aggressive Predator for Two-Spotted Spider Mites

Phytoseiulus persimilis is a specialist predatory mite used for rapid suppression of two-spotted spider mites (Tetranychus urticae). Recognized by its bright red color and high mobility, this predator consumes all life stages of spider mites—eggs, larvae, and adults—and can eliminate light infestations within 2–3 weeks. Unlike generalist predators, P. persimilis is best used as a curative tool during outbreaks. Once spider mites are eliminated, populations decline naturally. For preventative use, consider Neoseiulus fallacis, which can survive on pollen and other prey. How It Works After release, adult predators immediately search for spider mites, consuming 5–30 prey per day. Females lay 2–3 eggs daily, typically producing a female-skewed sex ratio of 4:1. Development is temperature-dependent—ranging from 5 days at 86°F to 25 days at 59°F. Populations expand quickly, providing fast curative control. Targets These Pest Species Two-Spotted Spider Mite (Tetranychus urticae) Other spider mite species on similar host crops (limited efficacy) Ideal Conditions Temperature: 68–81°F optimal (range: 59–86°F) Humidity: 60–90% RH Egg hatch: 2–3 days Lifecycle duration: 5–25 days depending on temperature Feeding rate: 5–30 spider mites per predator per day Misting or humidifiers improve establishment and reproduction Application Instructions Release immediately upon arrival, ideally in the evening Gently rotate the container to mix mites with carrier material Tap contents directly onto infested foliage or place in distribution cups/boxes within the canopy Leave the empty container in the crop for 24 hours to ensure full release Avoid release for 48 hours after applying knockdown sprays Do not use alongside Amblyseius cucumeris (food competition risk) Release Rates Tomatoes: Preventative: 1–3 mites per sq. ft. Moderate infestation: 5+ mites per sq. ft. Webbing/outbreak: 10+ mites per sq. ft. (after knockdown spray) Greenhouses & gardens: 2+ mites per sq. ft. Outdoor fields: 20,000–200,000 per acre, depending on severity Repeat applications every 7–14 days until control is achieved. Where to Use Greenhouses and indoor grow rooms Outdoor crops Orchards and vineyards Nurseries Hydroponics and aquaponics Container plants and interiorscapes Storage Store in a cool, dark place (do not refrigerate) Use within 18 hours of receipt for best results Cannot ship to: HI, PR, VI, GU, AS, PW Quick Tips ✔ Use as a curative tool against active spider mite infestations ✔ Release early in infestations, before heavy webbing develops ✔ Pairs well with Feltiella acarisuga or Steinernema feltiae for layered mite suppression ✔ Works best in warm, humid greenhouse conditions ✘ Do not combine with broad-spectrum miticides or incompatible predators