A true pioneer in the biocontrol of spider mite, Koppert Biological Systems has improved its top selling Spidex biological control solution by making it even more effective for growers. Spidex Vital contains Phytoseiulus persimilis mites that are at different stages of their development, including eggs, larva, growing nymphs, and adults, this prolongs and dramatically increases their effectiveness against spider mite infestations. For growers in the UK Spidex Vital is now available.
Spidex Vital gives better control of spider mite hotspots by building populations with improved egg-laying capacity. Trials conducted with Spidex Vital have shown that the searching capacity of the predatory mites is improved and mites cover a greater distance over a longer period of time.
Predatory mites in Spidex Vital have an energetic start’ says Koppert Product Manager Tim Bossinga. ‘The females already have enough energy to develop their eggs and can immediately start laying their eggs on release. In the past Phytoseiulus mites first needed to feed in the crop in order to develop their eggs. Because they start depositing their eggs directly, female mites have an improved ability to lay more eggs in the same time frame, hugely enhancing the biocontrol process and efficacy.’
Born to fight spider mite
The new Spidex Vital formulation coupled with improved nutrition for the mites ensures an energetic population of mites that can effectively control spider mite hotspots. A more diverse population composition of mites is present in a bottle of Spidex Vital, so when applied in hotspots, adults are followed up by the growing nymphs. These factors combined give increased hotspot control. Trials have shown a greater cumulative presence of predatory mites on infested leaves and proof of predation by Spidex Vital mites.
Proof of predation
The characteristic orange-red colour of Spidex mites is caused by pigments that are part of spider mites. Spidex Vital mites are white, but after consumption of spider mites, the pigments are absorbed and Spidex Vital mites change colour. This is the confirmation that Spidex Vital mites are on the job!
To think that it all started 53 years ago when predatory mites were produced at Koppert Biological Systems by the company’s founder, Jan Koppert. The eventual product, Spidex, became the foundation of what is now a leading international force in biocontrol. Thanks to Koppert’s continuous R&D drive and upgraded production processes, both quality and supply have now been enhanced and secured with Spidex Vital.
Kopperts’ advanced Spidex Vital biological solution takes spider mite control to the next level for professional growers worldwide.