Feltiella acarisuga is a specialist predator of spider mites, targeting eggs, nymphs, and adults. Unlike many predatory mites, this gall midge thrives on crops with dense or hairy foliage—such as tomatoes, cucumbers, sweet peppers, and strawberries—where traditional predators often struggle. Highly adaptable and effective, F. acarisuga is an excellent complement to Phytoseiulus persimilis in integrated mite management programs, especially during high-density infestations.
How It Works
Adult gall midges (≈2 mm, pinkish-brown) do not feed on mites directly but locate spider mite colonies to lay eggs. Within 2 days, orange-brown larvae hatch and actively feed on spider mite eggs, nymphs, and adults for 4–6 days. Pupation occurs in white cocoons on leaf undersides, with new adults emerging 4–6 days later. The full life cycle takes about 15 days. Larvae are the primary predators, capable of consuming multiple spider mites daily.
Targets These Mite Species
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Two-Spotted Spider Mite (Tetranychus urticae)
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Brown Almond Mite (Bryobia rubrioculus)
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Other Tetranychus species
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Multiple spider mite species across vegetable, fruit, and ornamental crops
Ideal Conditions
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Temperature: 68–81°F (20–27°C)
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Humidity: ~80% RH (higher humidity improves emergence)
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Life Cycle: ≈15 days (egg to adult)
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Egg Hatch: 2 days
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Larval Feeding: 4–6 days
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Especially effective in hairy or resinous crops where other predators are less efficient
Application Instructions
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Shipped as pupae on leaf material
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Open the container near infested areas and place on rockwool, soil, or slabs away from direct sunlight
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Leave container in place for at least 2 weeks for full emergence
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Maintain high humidity for optimal development
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Do not refrigerate; store only in a cool, dark place if immediate release is not possible
Release Rates
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Light Infestations: <1 per 1,000 sq. ft. (~500 per acre), weekly for at least 3 weeks
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Heavy Infestations: 2–3 per 1,000 sq. ft. (~1,000 per acre), weekly for at least 3 weeks
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Higher release rates may be required for resinous crops like tomatoes
Where to Use
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Greenhouses and nurseries
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Indoor grow rooms
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Hydroponic and aquaponic systems
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Container plants and interiorscapes
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Field crops (e.g., strawberries)
Shipping & Storage
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Shipped as pupae on leaves, ready to hatch into adult gall midges
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Ships Tuesdays only via overnight service (orders must be placed by Tuesday for the following week)
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Use within 18 hours of receipt
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Store in a cool, dark location if needed; do not refrigerate or freeze
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Not available for shipping to: HI, PR, VI, GU, AS, PW
Quick Tips
✔ Best combined with Phytoseiulus persimilis for rapid suppression
✔ Effective in hairy or resinous crops where mites hide
✔ Leave containers intact—do not scatter pupae
✔ Use sticky traps to monitor mite activity, but not near release sites
