How to release CaliLiv (Amblyseius californicus)

Whats in the CaliLiv Tube?

Predator: Amblyseius californicus  

Carrier: Bran or vermiculite 

Food: Feeder mites

How to release A. californicus:

• For best results, release as soon as receiving shipment.
• Gently rotate the tube to evenly mix the mites in the carrying material,
• Sprinkle on top of plant canopy or place in bio boxes hung on the plant. Focus in hot spot areas.
• Avoid pesticides (organic or synthetic) before and after release.
• Avoid top watering or washing plants after release. 

Can you store A. californicus?

We recommend releasing the predators immediately upon arrival.

If storage is necessary A. californicus can be stored for 1 day at room temperature in a dark, humid place (RH 60% or more). Avoid any contact with direct sunlight.

How to check the quality of the mites?

Due to colder temperatures during shipment predatory mites tends to gather in the middle of the tube. If at first you don’t see any movement, allow the shipment to come to room temperature before conducting a quality check. 

To check, gently rotate the tube to evenly mix the mites. Pour a small sample on a white piece of paper and use a minimum 10x lens to spot the Swirskii.

How to promote establishment?

Temp and humidity: Californicus prefers a warm and humid environment (25°C - 26°C and over 70% RH). It can survive lower humidity conditions in comparison to other predatory mites but still requires high humidity in order to breed.

Supplementary food: Feeder mites, Bugfeed

How to spot A. californicus after releasing?

Californicus is tiny with an oblong shape and whitish pink in color. To spot californicus after releasing in the crop check the under leaves (near the veins and hairs) with a 10x lense to find its eggs. To measure effectiveness, mark the hot spots of spider mites and routinely monitor the population of the pest. Some good signs are reduced chlorotic spots and damaged webbings.