Feltiella acarisuga for Spider Mite Control

Stethorus punctillum

Reared in Canada

Target Pests

Spider Mite

Most Growers want to prevent production losses from spider mite infestations, while staying within budget.

But the problem is that when spider mite infestations become severe, even predatory mites may struggle to keep up, leaving crops vulnerable to damage.

At Crop Defenders, we understand how frustrating that is. That's why we offer Stethorus punctillum, a highly mobile and voracious predator of spider mites, reared in Canada with expedited shipping or direct delivery to Growers across Canada and the United States.

Packaging Options

Adults

Carrier Material Options

Paper strips

Physical Description

Stethorus punctillum adults are 1.5mm (1/10 inch) long, dark brown to black, oval beetles with brownish yellow antennae, mouthparts and legs.

Larvae are slow moving, and dark grey in colour.
Eggs are light yellow ovals, laid individually within, or near, spider mite hotspots.

Life Cycle

Stethorus punctillum completes its life cycle within 18–25 days at 25°C (77°F).

Eggs hatch in approximately 2–5 days.
The larval stage lasts about 10–14 days, during which larvae actively consume spider mites.
The pupal stage occurs over 5–7 days, on the underside of foliage or plant structures.
Adults can live for up to 30–60 days, and adult females can lay up to 100–200 eggs throughout their lifespan.

Mode of Action

Stethorus punctillum larvae and adults actively hunt for spider mites, using their chewing mouthparts to consume their prey. Their high mobility and rapid feeding behavior make them particularly effective against severe spider mite infestations. Unlike predatory mites, these beetles can cover large areas quickly, making them ideal for controlling widespread infestations.

Target Pests

Two-Spotted Spider Mites Tetranychus urticae

Rates

Schedule a Call with our Technical Consultants for guidance on rates and strategies tailored to your crops and needs.

Ideal Greenhouse Conditions

Stethorus punctillum is most effective at temperatures between 16-35 ºC (61-90ºF) and relative humidity levels between 30-90% . Stethorus punctillum adults may remain active and feed, but won’t fly, at temperatures below 12ºC (54ºF).

Application

Release Stethorus punctillum adults in spider mite infested areas, and look for signs of reproduction (larvae, pupae, and adults) after four weeks from introduction.