Feltiella-System – highly mobile predator that homes in on spider mite
How does Feltiella-System control spider mites?
- Targeted spider mite control – the larvae of Feltiella acarisuga feed on various spider mite species, including two-spotted spider mite and carmine spider mite, sucking their prey dry.
- Excellent searching ability – female gall midges actively locate spider mite hotspots to lay their eggs. A single female can lay more than 100 eggs during her lifetime.
- Effective in cooler conditions – Feltiella-System remains active during cold and low-light periods, making it an excellent solution for spring and autumn crops.
- No crop damage – unlike some other gall midges, the larvae feed exclusively on spider mites and do not damage plant tissue.
- Perfect for IPM programmes – combine Feltiella-System with Phytoseiulus-System for even more effective biological spider mite control.
When should you introduce Feltiella-System?
- Start at the first signs of spider mites – introduce Feltiella-System as soon as the first spider mite hotspots are detected.
- Focus on hotspots – make additional releases in and around infested areas.
- Repeat introductions – apply weekly releases for three consecutive weeks for optimum control.
- Combine preventatively – together with Phytoseiulus-System, Feltiella-System forms a highly effective IPM strategy against spider mites
How do you release Feltiella-System?
- Place the cup in the crop – remove the lid so the adult gall midges can emerge. Place the cup on the ground or on a rockwool slab, protected from direct sunlight and water.
- Leave the cup in place – keep the cup in the crop for at least two weeks to allow all adults to emerge.
- Maintain a humid climate – a relative humidity of more than 80% promotes successful larval development.
- Combine when needed – use Feltiella-System together with Phytoseiulus-System for complementary spider mite control.
Under which conditions should you use Feltiella-System?
- Optimum performance between 20°C and 27°C (68°F to 81°F) – warm temperatures combined with a humid environment provide the best results.
- Also active during cooler periods – the gall midge continues to perform well in spring and autumn.
- Monitor performance – larvae and white, fluffy pupae can be found in or near spider mite hotspots, usually on the underside of leaves.
- Ideal for integrated pest management – thanks to its excellent searching behaviour and compatibility with predatory mites, Feltiella-System is a valuable addition to any IPM strategy against spider mites.