BarkeLiv (Neoseiulus barker) is a predatory mite widely used for managing thrips and other small pests in greenhouse crops. It is highly adaptable and can survive on pollen when thrips are scarce, ensuring consistent activity and population persistence.
Feeding Habits:
Both nymphs and adults feed on larval stages of thrips, reducing populations before significant crop damage occurs. Its generalist behavior allows it to also feed on spider mites and other small soft-bodied pests. It can also survive on pollen maintaining continuous biocontrol even when target prey isn’t available.
Lifecycle of Neoseiulus barkeri:
Egg Stage: Eggs are laid on the underside of leaves and hatch in 1–2 days.
Larval Stage: Non-feeding, lasting about 1 day.
Nymphal Stages (Proto- & Deutonymph): Active feeding begins during these stages, each lasting 3–4 days.
Adult Stage: Females start laying eggs within 1 day of emergence. The full life cycle is completed in 7–10 days under optimal greenhouse conditions. Typical sex ratio is 1 male to 2 females, supporting rapid population growth and continuous thrips suppression.
Benefits:
|
Benefit |
How It Helps Growers |
|
Direct suppression |
Both nymphs and adults feed on thrips, quickly reducing infestations. |
|
Multi-pest protection |
Can feed on spider mites and other small pests when thrips are scarce. |
|
Persistence |
Survives on pollen, maintaining populations even when prey is low. |
|
Adaptability |
Performs well across a wide temperature range and under moderate environmental fluctuations. |
Storage Conditions:
BarkeLiv (N. barkeri) should be used immediately upon arrival. If short-term storage is necessary, keep at 10–15°C in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight, wind, and extreme temperatures. Storage should not exceed 1 day to maintain predator health and effectiveness.
Application Guidelines:
Before release, gently roll the bottle to mix the mites without shaking. Sprinkle evenly over plants, adjusting rates according to crop type and thrips pressure. Regular monitoring ensures proper establishment and effectiveness.
Optimal conditions include temperatures of 24–27°C and relative humidity above 60%. BarkeLiv (N. barkeri) is most effective when released preventatively, allowing populations to establish before thrips outbreaks.
Recommended Release Rates:
|
Strategy |
Release Rate |
Interval |
|
Preventative |
25–50 mites/m² |
Every 14–21 days |
|
Curative |
200–250 mites/m² |
Every 7 days |
Preventative releases are the most efficient strategy. Establishing a stable BarkeLiv (N. Barkeri) population early helps maintain thrips populations at low levels, reducing the need for intensive curative interventions.