HypoLiv (Stratiolaelaps scimitus) is a soil-dwelling predatory mite widely used for managing soil pests in greenhouse crops. Best known for targeting fungus gnat larvae, HypoLiv is a generalist predator and also preys on thrip pupae, shoreflies, and other soil-dwelling pests. Its ability to survive on algae and organic matter in the absence of prey makes it an excellent preventative tool for integrated pest management (IPM).
Feeding Habits:
HypoLiv actively hunts soil-dwelling pests including fungus gnat larvae, thrip pupae, root aphids, springtails, and root mealybugs. Both nymphs and adults contribute to pest suppression, burrowing through growing media to locate prey.
When prey is scarce, HypoLiv can survive on algae and organic matter, maintaining a resident population in the soil and ensuring continuous preventive control.
Lifecycle of HypoLiv (S. scimitus)
HypoLiv (S. scimitus) completes its development in around 7–10 days under favorable conditions:
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Egg Stage: Eggs are laid in the growing media, hatching in 2–3 days.
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Larval Stage: A short, non-feeding stage that lasts about 1 day.
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Nymphal Stages (Proto- & Deutonymph): Active feeding begins and continues for 5–6 days in each stage.
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Adult Stage: Adults reproduce within 1 day of emerging, with a balanced 1:1 male-to-female ratio. Populations grow quickly and provide ongoing pest suppression.
Key Benefits
|
Benefit |
How It Helps Growers |
|
Broad-spectrum soil predation |
Controls fungus gnat larvae, thrips pupae, root aphids, springtails, root mealybugs, and other soil pests. |
|
Persistence in the absence of pests |
Survives on algae and organic matter, ensuring continuous presence. |
|
Adaptability |
Thrives in different soil types and greenhouse environments. |
Application Guidelines
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Apply HypoLiv directly to soil or growing media, distributing evenly across the crop.
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Avoid watering one hour before and after release.
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Optimal conditions for establishment:
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Temperature: 25 °C
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Soil moisture: 60–80%
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Storage
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Use immediately after arrival for best results.
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If short-term storage is necessary, keep at 10 °C.
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Keep away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures.
Recommended Release Rates
|
Strategy |
Release Rate |
Interval |
|
Preventive |
100 mites/m² |
Every 3–4 months |
|
Curative |
500 mites/m² |
Every 7 days |
Release rates may vary depending on pest pressure, crop type, and environmental conditions. Early-season introductions are recommended to establish populations before pests appear. For tailored advice, consult your local GrowLiv Biologicals representative.