Amblyseius cucumeris – Thrips Predator for Preventative Control

Amblyseius cucumeris is a predatory mite used primarily for controlling immature thrips in greenhouses, nurseries, indoor grow rooms, and outdoor crops. These small, tan-colored mites (about 0.5 mm) are most effective as a preventative tool or during the early stages of infestation, since they take 4–8 weeks to fully establish in a crop. They are an essential component of integrated pest management (IPM), reducing reliance on chemical pesticides.

When paired with compatible beneficials such as minute pirate bugs (Orius), rove beetles, or S. scimitus, A. cucumeris plays a vital role in long-term thrips management.

How It Works

A. cucumeris feeds on thrips eggs and early larval stages. After release, the mites disperse through the plant canopy, settling on leaf undersides and inside flowers, where they begin hunting. When prey is scarce, they survive on pollen, allowing them to remain active until pest populations reappear.

⚠️ Not compatible with A. swirskii, which may prey on immature A. cucumeris.

Targets These Species

• Western Flower Thrips (Frankliniella occidentalis)

• Bean Thrips (Caliothrips fasciatus)

• Broad Mites

• Russet Mites

• Spider Mites (limited impact)

• Thrips (general maintenance, not curative)

Note: Use Minute Pirate Bugs for established thrips infestations; use A. cucumeris for prevention and early control.

Ideal Conditions

• Temperature: 68–77°F (20–25°C)

• Humidity: 65–70% RH

• Life Span: Adults live ~30 days; females lay up to 35 eggs

• Development: Eggs hatch in ~2 days; maturity in 7–10 days

• Habitat: Active on leaf undersides and flowers

• Alternate Food: Can survive on pollen when prey is absent

Application Instructions

Shaker Tubes (Bran & Vermiculite):

• Shake small amounts onto foliage, focusing on pest pressure zones

• Mist plants lightly before release to help mites establish

• Do not apply directly to heating pipes or under intense light

Release Rates

• Preventative: 10–20 mites per sq. ft. (100–200 per m²), weekly

• Hot Spots: 20–40 mites per sq. ft. (100–400 per m²), weekly until pest pressure subsides

• Special Crops: Tomatoes and resinous plants may require higher rates

Where to Use

• Greenhouses

• Indoor Crops

• Outdoor Crops

• Orchards & Vineyards

• Nurseries

• Interiorscapes

• Container Plants

Compatible with minute pirate bugs, rove beetles, and S. scimitus.

Shipping & Storage

• Ships via Overnight only (Tuesdays only; order by Tuesday noon for following week shipment)

• Do Not Refrigerate

• Store in a cool, dark place, away from direct sunlight

• Use within 18 hours of receipt

Package contents: Shaker tubes with bran/vermiculite mix and live adult A. cucumeris, ready for immediate release.

Quick Tips

• Best used preventatively before thrips populations are visible

• Lightly mist plants before release to help mites settle

• Supplement with pollen sources or Good Bug Power Meal for longer survival

• Use sticky traps (blue/yellow) for early detection of thrips

• Pair with Minute Pirate Bugs or S. scimitus for full-spectrum thrips control

• Avoid use with A. swirskii