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Product Details
Spidend (Feltiella acarisuga) — Gall Midge Pupae
Spidend contains the pupal stage of Feltiella acarisuga, a predatory gall midge used for biological control of spider mites. Once adults emerge, females actively seek out spider mite colonies and deposit eggs nearby. The emerging larvae feed directly on spider mites, consuming them entirely. Spidend is chemical-free and safe for use in any growing environment including greenhouses, nurseries, orchards, flower beds, interiorscapes, outdoor landscapes, indoor plants including houseplants and more.
Key Features
Hot spot targeting— Gall midges fly to locate spider mite hot spots and lay eggs in spider mite dense zones
Rapid knockdown — Larvae feed aggressively on all spider mite stages, reducing populations quickly
Use For
Targets all species of spider mites, including:Two-spotted spider mite (Tetranychus urticae)
Tomato red spider mite (Tetranychus evansi)
Other greenhouse and field spider mites
When to Use Spidend
Use as soon as spider mites are detected. Effective across all growing environments.
Recommended for:
First sign of spider mite colonies
Hotspots and hard-to-reach areas — leaf folds, undersides, and protected zones sprays cannot penetrate
Moderate to high spider mite pressure — apply higher rates and repeat introductions until colonies are controlled
How It Works
Mode of Action — Adults emerge from pupae and deposit eggs near spider mite colonies; larvae hatch and feed directly on spider mites
Behavior — Adults are nocturnal and locate spider mite colonies by scent and webbing; larvae feed aggressively on all spider mite stages
Visual Effect — Spider mites are consumed entirely—only the skin remains
Feeding Rates
Larvae feed continuously for 4–7 days before pupation.
Feeding begins immediately after hatching (eggs hatch in about 2–3 days under optimal conditions).
Larvae may kill more spider mites than they consume when spider mite populations are high.
Lifecycle of Feltiella acarisuga
Egg Stage — Eggs are laid near spider mite colonies; hatch in 2–3 days under optimal conditions.
Larval Stage (predatory) — Orange, legless larvae feed aggressively for 4–7 days before pupating.
Pupal Stage (included in Spidend) — Dark pupae mixed with shredded paper carrier; adults emerge under warm, humid conditions.
Adult Stage — Small gall midges with long legs; active at night; females lay eggs near spider mite colonies.
Release Rates & Application
Pressure Level Definition Rate per 10 sq ft Repeat Interval Low Pressure Early colonies; minimal webbing 2–5 pupae Weekly Medium Pressure Multiple zones; visible webbing 5–15 pupae Weekly High Pressure Widespread colonies; heavy webbing 15–25 pupae Weekly or twice weekly in hotspots
Application Notes:
Make a hole in the lid and place the cup directly on soil or rockwool slabs
Protect against direct sunlight and water
Do not scatter contents—pupae must remain in the cup to maintain humidity
Leave the cup in place for at least two weeks
Use peel-off label to mark release points
Repeat releases until control is achieved
Dosage
The dosage of Spidend depends on climate, crop and spider mite density and should always be adjusted to the particular situation. Start introduction as soon as the first spider mites are detected in the crop. Introduction rates typically range from 0.25-25 per 10 sq ft/release. Releases should be repeated at least 3 times at weekly intervals, or until the problem is controlled. For expert assistance combatting an active spider mite problem with Spidend, reach out to our live chat in the bottom right hand corner of the site or fill out our contact us form.
Best Working Conditions
Temperature — Optimal range 68–81°F
Night Temperature — Must remain above 61°F for optimal oviposition
Humidity — High RH (>80%) supports emergence and egg-laying
Compatibility Guidance
Allow residues from oils or soaps to dry before application
For pesticide/chemical compatibility details, check out our Chemical Compatibility page.
Product Specifications
Pack Size — 250 pupae
Presentation — 550 mL plastic cup
Appearance — Dark pupae mixed with carrier; larvae are orange and legless
What to Expect
Adults begin emerging within 24–48 hours after release. Females lay eggs near spider mite colonies, and larvae hatch in approximately 2–3 days under optimal conditions. Once hatched, larvae start feeding immediately on spider mites. Spider mite populations decline rapidly as larvae consume mites in hotspots. Control builds progressively as successive larvae move through affected areas. Continue scouting and reapply as needed to maintain suppression and prevent resurgence.
Recommended IPM Pairings
Spidex Vital — Complements Spidend for layered control and coverage
Isarid® Mycoinsecticide — Adds fungal mode of action for spider mites and other soft-bodied pests
Dune™ — Improves plant resilience against sucking pests through strengthening plant cell walls
Horiver Yellow Sticky Traps — For monitoring secondary pests like thrips and whiteflies
Essential Oil Knockdown (e.g., neem-based) — For pre-release reduction of heavy mite populations; apply after residues dry
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 Spidend kill spider mites immediately?
No—Spidend works through larval feeding. Adults emerge within 24–48 hours, lay eggs near spider mite colonies, and larvae begin feeding immediately after hatching. Spider mites are consumed entirely, leaving only the skin behind.
Does Spidend contain adults?
No—Spidend contains pupae. Adults hatch under warm, humid conditions and begin laying eggs near spider mite colonies.
How soon will I see results?
Feeding begins within 24–48 hours of hatching. Larvae feed continuously for 4–7 days and can kill more mites than they consume when populations are high. Visible reduction in spider mite populations occurs rapidly in hotspots.
Can I scatter the pupae over the crop?
No—pupae must remain in the cup to maintain humidity. Scattering reduces emergence and effectiveness.
Can Spidend be used with predatory mites?
Yes—Spidend complements Spidex Vital and other predatory mites for layered spider mite control. Always allow residues from oils or soaps to dry before release and check compatibility charts for chemical sprays.Why choose beneficial predators?
Beneficial predators provide a sustainable, long-term approach to pest control:- No resistance issues: Pests cannot develop resistance to natural predators, eliminating the constant cycle of switching chemical products.
- Easy to scale: As plants grow, predator introductions can be increased without overhauling the program, ensuring consistent results and minimal disruptions.
- Cleaner and safer: Replacing chemical sprays reduces pesticide runoff, protects pollinators, and promotes a more natural growing system.
- Superior quality: At Natural Enemies, we are the insectary. Products are held to the highest standards, ensuring vigorous, effective predators that perform reliably in real-world growing conditions.
Questions about Spidend?
Click the livechat button in the bottom right or contact us today!
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Product Uses
- Use For:
- Two-Spotted Spider Mites
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Shipping Info
For delivery mid- week, order must be placed by 12 pm on Thursday. For delivery on Friday, order must be placed by 12 pm on Monday of the same week.
Please allow 1 business day to receive a pdf order confirmation with your expected shipping date.