Spical

Spical Bottles (Neoseiulus californicus) — Predatory Mite for Spider Mite Control

Spical bottles contain active life stages of Neoseiulus californicus, a proven predatory mite for controlling spider mites & mite species. These predators actively disperse across plant surfaces to consume all stages of spider mites, delivering fast, targeted control in any growing environment. Spical is chemical-free, IPM-compatible, and safe for use in greenhouses, nurseries, orchards, flower beds, interiorscapes, outdoor landscapes, indoor plants including houseplants and more.

• Immediate release: Tap-to-apply format enables direct coverage of hotspots
• High predator density: 25,000 predatory mites per bottle for concentrated curative action
• Efficient dispersal: Predatory Mites actively target mite populations by crawling across plant surfaces after release

Spical targets all life stages—eggs, nymphs, and adults—of many mite species, including:

Two-spotted spider mite (Tetranychus urticae)
European red mite (Panonychus ulmi)
Citrus red mite (Panonychus citri)
Other common greenhouse and field spider mites

As a Type II generalist, Neoseiulus californicus can also feed on:

Tarsonemid mites (e.g., broad mites, Polyphagotarsonemus latus)
Eriophyid mites (e.g., russet mites, Aculops lycopersici)

*For dedicated broad and russet mite control, Anso-Mite is a more aggressive predator

When to Use Spical Bottles
Use wherever spider mites or other pest mites are present or expected. Effective across all growing environments.

Recommended for:
• Active spider mite colonies, hotspots, or widespread pressure
• Prevention as well as curative control in high-pressure zones
• Spider mites harboring deep in plant tissue, folds, or crevices—areas sprays often miss
• Growers seeking a reliable preventative and control of spider mites

How It Works
Mode of Action: Mites pierce prey with their mouthparts and consume internal contents
Behavior: Mites disperse immediately across plant surfaces after release
Visual Effect: Pest populations decline as mites establish and feed
Application Method: Rotate bottle gently before use to distribute mites evenly. Tap bottle to release mites directly onto plant surfaces.

Feeding Rates:
Nymphs and adults feed on eggs, larvae, and adult stages of mite species, preferred target is spider mites
Nymphs and adults consume 5–10 prey items per day under optimal conditions
Feeding life stages last 14–20 days, depending on temperature and prey availability

Lifecycle of Neoseiulus californicus
Egg Stage
• Oblong, transparent white eggs laid on leaf surfaces
• Hatch in 2–3 days under optimal conditions
Larval Stage
• Non-feeding
• Lasts 1–2 days
Nymph Stage
• Begins feeding
• Highly mobile and effective in early suppression
Adult Stage
• Actively hunts and consumes prey
• Lifespan ~20 days
• Capable of laying 2–3 eggs per day under optimal conditions

Release Rates & Application

Application Notes:
Adjust rates based on crop type, climate, and pest density
Rotate bottle gently before use
Sprinkle material directly onto leaves
Ensure material remains on foliage for several hours after release

Best Working Conditions
Temperature: Effective between 55–90°F; optimal range 68–86°F
Humidity: Sensitive below 60% RH
Reproduction Peak: Fastest at 86°F

Compatibility Guidance
•  For chemicals compatibility details, check out our Natural Enemies - Chemical Compatibility Table and Beneficial Insect & Pesticide Compatibility Table
• Allow residues from oils or soaps to dry before application

Product Specifications
Pack Size: 25,000 predatory mites
Presentation: 500 mL bottle
Carrier: Vermiculite
Appearance: Mites are beige and fast-moving; eggs are transparent white

What to Expect
•  Spical bottles deliver high-density predatory mites that disperse immediately after application, targeting spider mites and related pests hiding in plant folds and undersides.
•  Visible pest reduction often begins within days as mites feed aggressively on eggs, larvae, and adults.
•  Works best when combined with preventative sachets and scouting for sustained control.

Recommended IPM Pairings
•  Spical Ulti-Mite sachets for long-term preventative coverage
•  Spidex for aggressive spider mite knockdown in hotspots
•  Swirskii sachets for layered thrips and whitefly control

FAQs

Can I store this for later?
Long-term storage, i.e. more than 48 hours, is not recommended. Apply promptly after receipt. Our products are shipped fresh for immediate use to ensure maximum performance. If needed, keep in a cool, dark, dry place for up to 1–2 days; longer holding reduces effectiveness and quality.

Does Spical contain adult mites?
Yes—bottles contain a mix of life stages, including adults, juveniles, and eggs.

Is Spical safe for indoor plants?
Yes—completely safe for people, pets, and plants, making it ideal for enclosed environments like homes, offices, and interiorscapes.

How soon will I see results?
Spical bottles provide immediate predator release. Feeding starts immediately. Control builds quickly as predators move through affected areas.

Can I use this on tomatoes?
Spical is not recommended for tomato crops. Tomatoes have natural resistances to certain predators, making it difficult for Spical to maneuver and hunt on the plant. There is no harm to using Spical in any set-up; however, performance is limited in mature tomatoes. For tomatoes, we recommend using Spidex for spider mite control and Thripex for thrips management.

What’s the difference between Spical bottles and sachets?
Bottles are designed for curative releases and direct hotspot suppression. Sachets provide slow-release preventative coverage.