How to release CucuLiv (Neoseiulus cucumeris)

Whats in the CucuLiv Tube?

Predator: Neoseiulus cucumeris

Carrier:  Vermiculite or bran 

Food: Feeder mite 

 

How to release N. cucumeris: 

• 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 near the base of the stem. 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 N. cucumeris?

We recommend releasing the predators immediately upon arrival.

If storage is necessary cucumeris 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 temps during shipment predatory mites tends to huddle 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 mites.

How to promote establishment?

Temp and humidity: Cucumeris prefers a cool and humid environment (24°C and over 70% RH).

Supplementary food: Feeder mites, Bugfeed, Mite Booster

How to spot N. cucumeris after releasing?

Cucumeris is a tiny mite with an oblong body that’s slightly translucent. To spot cucumeris after releasing it in the crop check the underside of leaves near the veins and hairs with a 10x lens. You should see its eggs laid there. 

To measure effectiveness, mark the hot spots of thrips and routinely monitor the population of the pest.