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Hypoaspis miles is a soil-dwelling predatory mite that will shy away from light. For viewing, place in a dark area for at least 15 minutes before attempting to inspect in the light.
TARGET PESTS:
Feeds on Fungus Gnats, Root Aphids, Thrips, Sciarid Flies, Shore Flies, Springtails, Root Mealybugs, Bulb Mites, Poultry Mites, and Snake Mites.
ABOUT HYPOASPIS MILES:
Hypoaspis miles, also known as Stratiolaelaps scimitus, is a "generalist," soil-dwelling predatory mite that feeds on various insects and mites. These small mites, measuring approximately 1mm in size, have a tan coloration. It has a long, oval-shaped body with a light tan to reddish-brown color. The mite has four pairs of legs and a distinctive scimitar-shaped (curved) mouthpart.
One of the remarkable characteristics of Hypoaspis miles is their adaptability. These mites can thrive in diverse conditions, tolerating a wide range of temperatures and humidity levels. However, they are sensitive to excessive moisture and flooding, so maintaining proper soil moisture is important for their survival and activity.
RELEASE RATES:
To maximize the effectiveness of Hypoaspis miles, it is recommended to employ them as a preventive measure rather than waiting for pest populations to reach high levels. Ideally, the application should take place before or shortly after planting.
PREVENTATIVE:
Small Area: 30 per sq. ft., weekly for 2-6 weeks
Large Area: 25,000 per 1,000 sq. ft., weekly for 2-6 weeks
Release regularly.
It's important to note that these release rates serve as general guidelines and may vary based on the specific pest species, the crop or plant being treated, and level of infestation. Proper monitoring of the infestation and the subsequent effectiveness of the released beneficial insect population is crucial for determining the success of the biological control strategy.
Predatory mites are susceptible to pesticides. Avoid spraying plants one week before or after releasing predators. Some materials may be toxic to predators for up to four weeks.
If you've recently used pesticides, be sure to check the chemical compatibility with your predatory mites. We've compiled a list of some common chemicals as a resource.
STORAGE:
For best results, release as soon as possible upon receipt. Do not refrigerate. If storage is necessary, store at 50°- 60° F. for no longer than 48 hours.
PRO TIP:
To achieve a comprehensive approach in controlling soil-dwelling pests, it is recommended to combine the use of Hypoaspis miles with other beneficial predators and complementary products in your IPM program - such as Beneficial Nematodes and BioCare Gnat Stix Traps.
We do not recommend releasing Hypoaspis miles onto soils that have been treated with lime. Foliage sprays rather than soil drenches are recommended.
LIFESPAN:
The adult lifespan of Hypoaspis can vary depending on various conditions, but it generally lasts for a few weeks to a couple months. During this phase, the female mites lay small, transparent eggs in the soil. The eggs hatch in 1-3 days. Once the eggs hatch, Hypoaspis goes through a series of developmental stages. The first stage is the larval stage that actively feeds on pests and lasts approximately 7 days. Then, Hypoaspis undergoes two nymphal stages: protonymph and deutonymph. During these stages they molt and shed as they feed on pests, and grow into adults. Total lifecycle approximately 20 days.
It's important to note that these time-frames are approximate and can be influenced by factors such as temperature, humidity, and the availability of prey. Monitoring the development and activity of beneficial insect populations, along with environmental conditions, can help determine the progress and effectiveness of their role in pest control efforts.