Thripex

Thripex Bottles (Neoseiulus cucumeris) — Predatory Mite for Thrips and Mite Control
Thripex bottles contain active life stages of Neoseiulus cucumeris, a proven predatory mite for controlling thrips larvae and several mite species. These predators actively disperse across plant surfaces to consume target pests, delivering fast, targeted control in any growing environment. Thripex 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.
Thripex Product Sheet - Downloadable

Immediate release: Tap-to-apply format enables direct coverage of hotspots
High predator density: 50,000 predatory mites per bottle for concentrated curative action
Efficient dispersal: Predatory mites actively target thrips larvae and mites by crawling across plant surfaces after release

Use For
Thripex targets young larvae of various thrips species, including
Western flower thrips (Frankliniella occidentalis)
Onion thrips (Thrips tabaci)
Other greenhouse and ornamental thrips (e.g., Echinothrips americanus, Thrips fuscipennis, Thrips simplex)

As a Type III generalist, Neoseiulus cucumeris also feeds on:
Broad mites (Polyphagotarsonemus latus)
Cyclamen mites (Phytonemus pallidus)
Spider mites

When to Use Thripex Bottles
Use wherever thrips larvae or small mites are present or expected. Effective across all growing environments.

Recommended for:
Active thrips colonies or mite hotspots
Prevention as well as curative control in high-pressure zones
Crops with known seasonal thrips or mite pressure
Growers seeking a reliable preventative and control of thrips and 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 thrips larvae and mite eggs
Adults and late-stage nymphs consume 1-5 prey items per day under optimal conditions
Feeding life stages last ~20 days, depending on temperature and prey availability

Lifecycle of Neoseiulus cucumeris
Egg Stage
Oblong, transparent white eggs laid on leaf hairs along veins
Hatch in 2–3 days under optimal conditions
Larval Stage
Non-feeding
Lasts 1–2 days
Nymphal Stages
Begins feeding
Highly mobile and effective in early suppression
Nymphal development lasts 4–6 days
Adult Stage
Actively hunts and consumes prey
Lifespan ~20 days
Capable of laying 2–3 eggs per day under optimal conditions

Release Rates & Application

Best Working Conditions
Temperature: Effective between 59–77°F; optimal range 68–77°F
Humidity: Sensitive below 70% RH
Reproduction Peak: Fastest at 77°F

Diapause: Thripex is not susceptible to diapause, allowing year-round use

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
Do not use directly in combination with Swirskii, avoid combining with other generalist predatory mites

Product Specifications
Pack Size: 50,000 predatory mites
Presentation: 1,000 mL bottle
Carrier: Vermiculite
Appearance: Mites are beige-pink and fast-moving; eggs are transparent white

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

Recommended IPM Pairings
Horiver Yellow sticky traps for monitoring flying pests
Thripor for additional control over thrips populations
Spical or Spidex for comprehensive spider mite control
Isarid Mycoinsecticide for knockdown in high-pressure zones

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

Is Thripex 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?
Thripex bottles provide immediate predator release. Feeding starts immediately. Control builds quickly as predators move through affected areas.

Can I use this on tomatoes?
Yes, Thripex is recommended for tomato crops. Tomatoes have natural resistances to certain predators, making it difficult for some predatory mites to maneuver and hunt on the plant. There is no harm to using Thripex in any set-up & Thripex is able to navigate tomatoes. For spider mite control in tomatoes, check out Spidex.

Does Thripex feed on other pests?
Yes—Neoseiulus cucumeris feeds on thrips larvae, broad mites, and other mites.