Neoseiulus californicus, first identified by McGregor in 1954 on lemon trees in California, is today one of the most effective and versatile tools in integrated pest management (IPM). From its origins on the West Coast, this predatory mite has spread globally, thriving in regions like Argentina, Japan, South Africa, and across the Mediterranean. "What makes Neoseiulus californicus such a popular choice in pest management is its adaptability across climates and its broad range of pest targets," says Dr Omid Joharchi of Anatis Bioprotection. "This mite protects a wide array of crops, including avocados, citrus, grapes, strawberries, corn, and many vegetables and ornamentals."
A hybrid hunter: combining specialist and generalist skills
One of the unique features of N. californicus is its ability to function as both a specialist and a generalist predator. "It acts like a hybrid," Dr Joharchi explains. "On the one hand, it targets specific pests such as the two-spotted spider mite (Tetranychus urticae), which is abundant in greenhouse and field crops. It can also switch to various other pest mites, small insects, and even pollen when prey is scarce." This dual capability allows N. californicus to be successful in both curative and preventative pest management programs, adjusting naturally to different pest populations across diverse crops.
Climate warrior: surviving in extreme conditions
Another reason for the popularity of N. californicus is its resilience in a wide range of climates. "Unlike many predatory mites that need stable climates, N. californicus is extraordinarily adaptable," says Dr Joharchi. It can flourish at temperatures from 10°C to 33°C (50-91°F) and in humidity levels from 40% to 80%. Additionally, it can survive brief cold snaps, tolerating freezing nighttime temperatures in areas like northern Florida and even parts of Canada. "This capability makes it ideal for areas with fluctuating climates," Dr Joharchi adds, "giving growers a reliable pest control agent even in harsher conditions."
Spider mite specialist: web-cutting
Spider mites, particularly the two-spotted variety, are among the most destructive pests, often forming dense webbing that can trap and repel predators. Yet N. californicus has a unique advantage. "It possesses specialized mouthparts, or chelicerae, to cut through the webbing of spider mites," Dr Joharchi says. "It uses its front legs to create openings in the web-nests, allowing it to penetrate spider mite colonies effectively." This distinctive web-cutting ability makes N. californicus especially effective in high-infestation scenarios, where it can dismantle thick webs and attack spider mite colonies from within.
Predator beyond spider mites
N. californicus also preys on other tetranychid mites, tarsonemid mites like the broad mite (Polyphagotarsonemus latus), and small pests such as thrips larvae. "During times of low pest pressure, N. californicus can survive on pollen, a trait that is incredibly useful for early-season applications," Dr Joharchi notes. This capacity to survive without pest populations makes N. californicus an ideal candidate for preventive deployment, as it can establish itself in a crop before major infestations occur. "Growers are increasingly using it in a 'predator-in-first' strategy, releasing N. californicus proactively," he adds.
Strategic release
N. californicus offers flexibility in application. "The release strategy can be tailored to different crops and pest densities," says Dr Joharchi. In strawberries, for instance, growers may release one female N. californicus for every 10 two-spotted spider mites once pests are detected. "By adjusting release rates according to pest pressure, growers can achieve effective control without overspending on biological agents," Dr Joharchi explains.
"The unique qualities of Neoseiulus californicus make it an invaluable ally in modern agriculture," Dr Joharchi explains. "Its remarkable adaptability allows it to thrive in diverse environmental conditions, from chilly nights to warm, humid days, which makes it effective across a range of climates where other predatory species might falter."
Dr Joharchi also highlights its impressive versatility as a predator: "Unlike many species that target only one pest, N. californicus preys on multiple pest types, including spider mites, broad mites, and thrips larvae. It can even sustain itself on pollen during low pest periods, allowing it to act as both a curative and preventative agent." This trait is crucial, he notes, as it lets N. californicus establish itself in crops early, well before pests become a problem.
"What really makes N. californicus different is its rare web-cutting ability," Dr Joharchi continues. "This mite can cut through the dense webbing that spider mites use to shield their colonies, penetrating and controlling infestations that might otherwise be challenging to manage." He concludes, "With its resilience, broad predatory range, unique hunting skills, and preventative power, N. californicus is truly a game-changer in sustainable pest management, offering growers a highly effective and eco-friendly alternative to chemical controls."
Reference for scientific information:
Croft B.A., Monetti L.N. and Pratt P.D. 1998. Comparative life histories and predation types: are Neoseiulus californicus and N. fallacis (Acari: Phytoseiidae) similar type II selective predators of spider mites? Environ. Entomol. 27: 531–538.
McMurtry J.A. and Croft B.A. 1997. Life-styles of phytoseiid mites and their roles in biological control. Annu. Rev. Entomol. 42: 291–321.
Nancy, M.G., Norma, E.S. & Gerardo, G.L. (2005) Neoseiulus californicus (Acari: Phytoseiidae) as a potential control agent of Tetranychus urticae (Acari: Tetranychidae): effect of pest/predator ratio on pest abun dance on strawberry. Experimental & Applied Acarology, 37, 57–66. http://dx.doi.org/10.1007/s10493-005-0067-7
McMurtry, J.A., Moraes, G.J. de &Famah Sourassou, N. (2013) Revision of the lifestyles of phytoseiid mites (Acari: Phytoseiidae) and implications for biological control strategies. Systematic & Applied Acarology, 18, 297–320. http://dx.doi.org/10.11158/saa.18.4.1
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