HypoLiv (Stratiolaelaps scimitus) is a soil-dwelling predatory mite widely used in greenhouse crops for managing soil and pupal stage pests. Known for suppressing fungus gnat larvae, HypoLiv is also highly effective against thrips pupae, making it a versatile tool in integrated pest management (IPM). Its ability to survive on algae and organic matter ensures continuous presence and preventative control.
Feeding Habits
HypoLiv actively hunts and feeds on thrips pupae, fungus gnat larvae, root aphids, springtails, and other soil-dwelling pests. Its capacity to persist on algae and organic matter allows it to maintain populations even when prey is scarce, providing ongoing preventative control.
Lifecycle of HypoLiv (S. scimitus)
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Egg Stage: Eggs are laid in soil or growing media and hatch in 2–3 days.
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Larval Stage: A short, non-feeding stage lasting about 1 day.
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Nymphal Stages (Proto- & Deutonymph): Active feeding occurs over 5–6 days on soil-dwelling thrips pupae and other prey.
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Adult Stage: Adults begin reproducing within 1 day of emergence, with a balanced 1:1 male-to-female ratio. Populations expand rapidly, maintaining sustained thrips pupal suppression.
Benefits
|
Benefit |
How It Helps Growers |
|
Broad-Spectrum Soil Predation |
Controls thrips pupae, fungus gnat larvae, root aphids, springtails, and other soil pests. |
|
Persistence Without Prey |
Survives on algae and organic matter for continuous preventative control. |
|
Adaptability |
Thrives across various soil types and greenhouse conditions. |
Storage Conditions
Use HypoLiv immediately upon arrival. For short-term storage:
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Keep at 10 °C if necessary.
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Avoid direct sunlight and extreme temperatures.
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Optimal establishment occurs at 25 °C with soil moisture of 60–80%.
Application Guidelines
Apply HypoLiv directly to soil or growing media, spreading evenly across the crop. Avoid watering 1 hour before and after release. Regular monitoring ensures proper establishment and effectiveness.
Recommended Release Rates
|
Strategy |
Release Rate |
Interval |
|
Preventive |
100 mites/m² |
Every 3–4 months |
|
Curative |
500 mites/m² |
Every 7 days |
Early-season releases help establish populations before thrips infestations occur. Release rates may vary depending on crop type, environmental conditions, and pest pressure. For crop-specific guidance, consult your local GrowLiv Biologicals representative.