When to use Spidex?
Use Spidex for biological pest control of two-spotted spider mite (Tetranychus urticae). Spidex works well on all the life cycle stages of the two-spotted spider mite but prefers younger stages most. Use Spidex preventatively and at the first sign of pest presence.
How does Spidex work?
Phytoseiulus persimilis feed on all stages of spider mites but has a preference for eggs. The predatory mites pierce the eggs and consume the contents. Adult Phytoseiulus persimilis also attack adult spider mites but the smaller development stages only feed on smaller prey stages. The larvae do not eat. The predatory mite can only survive on two-spotted spider mites (Tetranychus spp.).
Application Spidex
- Turn and shake the bottle gently before use
- Sprinkle material on leaves or pour into Diboxes
- It is possible to distribute Spidex mechanically by means of the (Mini)Airbug/Airobug
Best working conditions Spidex
Relative humidity should be above 75% and the temperature above 20°C/68°F for at least some hours of the day. Phytoseiulus persimilis does not enter diapause.
Handling
Biological beneficials have a very short life expectancy and therefore need to be introduced into the crop as soon as possible after receipt. Failure to do so can have a negative impact on their quality. In case you do need to store Spidex, please follow the instructions below. Koppert B.V. is not liable for any loss of quality if the product is stored for longer and/or under different conditions than recommended.
- Storage after receipt: 1-2 days
- Storage temperature: 8-10°C/47-50°F
- In the dark (bottle horizontally)
Dosage
The information given below is merely indicative. Tailored advice can be provided if the information is available on the local factors that need to be taken into account, such as the crop, the climate conditions and the level of infestation. For the correct approach, please consult a Koppert specialist or a recognized distributor of Koppert products.
Spidex | preventive | light curative | heavy curative |
---|---|---|---|
rate | 2/m² | 6/m² | 20-50/m² |
m²/unit | 1000 | 300 | 40-100 |
interval (days) | 21 | 7 | 7 |
frequency | - | 1-2x | 2x |
remark | - | - | introduce in infested areas only |