Spidend
Write a Review
Spidend
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
Product Specifications
Pack Size — 250 pupae
Presentation — 550 mL plastic cup
Appearance — Dark pupae mixed with carrier; larvae are orange and legless
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.
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.
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
Other Products Growers Love
Spidex Boost Sachets (Phytoseiulus persimilis) — Predatory Mite for Spider Mite ControlSpidex Boost …
Spidex Vital GO Sachets (Phytoseiulus persimilis) — Predatory Mite for Spider Mite ControlSpidex Vit…
Spidex Vital PLUS Sachets (Phytoseiulus persimilis) — Predatory Mite for Spider Mite ControlSpidex V…
Spidex Vital Bottle (Phytoseiulus persimilis) — Predatory Mite for Spider Mite Control Spidex Vital …
Spical Bottles (Neoseiulus californicus) — Predatory Mite for Spider Mite Control Spical bottles con…
