Red spider mite - Control with Phytoseiulus  Ref: BC05
	Biological control of red spider mite Phytoseiulus -Instructions for use for the control of Red Spider Mite Red spider mite is a frequently occurring pest in vegetables and ornamental plants. With use of a predatory mite, Phytoseiulus, they can be controlled biologically and efficiently. Red spider mite (or two-spotted mite) is a tiny yellow or brown mite that can be easily distinguished with the aid of a hand lens by two dark spots on the sides of the body. In hot, dry, weather conditions the pest will multiply and spread very rapidly. The immature stages, as well as the adults, feed on plant sap on the underside of the leaves, stunting the growth of the plant. In case of severe damage, the whole leaf surface can be bleached or shrivelled. A fine silky webbing may also be present on the top and underside of the infested leaves. Predatory Mites The predatory mite, Phytoseiulus, look actively for prey, feeding on all life stages of the red spider mite by sucking them empty. The ideal temperature for predatory mites is between 15 and 25oC. Application ° Phytoseiulus mites are delivered in the adult stage. ° They are packed per 500 on vermiculite in a bottle. ° The bottles are closed with a screw cap that has a small opening in it, this opening is closed with a black washer. ° After their arrival, the predatory mites should be introduced as soon as possible, preferably in the morning or evening to avoid high temperatures. ° The predatory mites together with vermiculite are spread out on the plants to be treated. ° Slightly turn and gently shake the bottle several times to make sure the predatory mites are spread equally. ° Remove the cap, push out and discard the washer that closes the opening in the screw cap. Replace the cap and sprinkle through the opening. ° One bottle of 500 pieces can treat an area of up to 50m² at early stages of infestation. ° If the problem is severe, more predatory mites should be introduced. ° The treatment should be repeated after 2 or 3 weeks. ° In case of severe damage, it is better to remove the damaged leaves before introducing the predators. ° High temperatures and humidity favour the development of the predatory mites, in very dry conditions regular misting of the infected plants increases the chance of success. USE PHYTOSEIULUS IMMEDIATELY ON RECEIPT Pictures show damage caused by red spider mite which can be controlled with use of the predatory mite (Phytoseiulus). Mites are visible with a hand lens.