Predatory mites 

Description

Phytoseiulus persimilis is a species of spider. It was first described by Athias-henriot in 1957. Phytoseiulus persimilis belongs to the genus Phytoseiulus, and family Phytoseiidae. There is no listed species like this. Phytoseiulus is a genus of mites in the Phytoseiidae family. A predatory mite, this is the mite predator most frequently used to control two-spotted spider mites in greenhouses and outdoor crops grown in mild environments. This mite was accidentally introduced into Germany from Chile in 1958; it was subsequently shipped to other parts of the world, including California and Florida, from Germany. A Phytoseiulus mite can consume up to seven adult spider mites or several dozen of their eggs in a day. Adult females are reddish, pear-shaped, about 0.5 mm (0.020 in) long, and active at room temperature. Immatures and males are smaller and lighter in color. Eggs are oblong. About 80% are females. At optimum temperatures, Phytoseiidae can develop from egg to adult in seven days and live up to a month. A well-fed female lays about 50 eggs in her lifetime. Ideal temperature range is 70-85 °F (21-29 °C) with relative humidity of 70-80% inside the plant canopy. Minimum temperature for activity is 50 °F (10 °C). This predator does best when humidity is 60% or higher with a temperature range of 55 to 105 °F (13 to 41 °C).