Galendromus occidentalis - Specialist for Hot, Dry Conditions
TARGET PESTS
Galendromus occidentalis targets a broad spectrum of plant-feeding mites, making it a versatile biocontrol agent. Primary targets include spider mites in the family Tetranychidae, such as the two-spotted spider mite (Tetranychus urticae), Pacific spider mite (Tetranychus pacificus), Willamette mite (Eotetranychus willamettei), European red mite (Panonychus ulmi), citrus red mite (Panonychus citri), McDaniel mite (Tetranychus mcdanieli), spruce spider mite (Oligonychus ununguis), and persea mite (Oligonychus perseae). It also preys on russet mites in the family Eriophyidae.
PRODUCT DESCRIPTION
Galendromus occidentalis, commonly known as the western predatory mite, is a member of the family Phytoseiidae (Order Acari). Adults are pear-shaped and approximately 1/70 inch (0.36 mm) in length. Nymphs resemble small adults but are more oval in shape. Adults and nymphs are translucent to white, or take on the coloration of their prey.
A key distinguishing trait of this species is its environmental tolerance. The western predatory mite tolerates hot temperatures and low relative humidity, functioning across a relative humidity range of 40 to 80%. It can remain active year-round in mild climates, and in colder regions it overwinters as mated females in bark crevices and ground litter. This adaptability makes it especially well-suited for warm, arid growing environments where other predatory mite species may struggle.
CROPS
Galendromus occidentalis is well-suited for use across a wide range of agricultural systems, both field and protected. Recommended crops include:
- Tree fruits & nuts: Deciduous fruit trees, avocado, and nut orchards
- Vines: Vineyards (wine and table grapes), hops
- Specialty crops: Hemp, medicinal cannabis
- Vegetables: Tomato, cucumber, sweet peppers, and other greenhouse vegetables
- Ornamentals: Roses, gerbera, interiorscapes, and other ornamental plants
INTRODUCTION RATES
- Indoors Releases: 1,000 per 500 sq. ft. bi-weekly for 2-3 applications. Release approximately 1 predatory mite per 5 pest mites.
- Outdoor Releases: 2,000-5,000 per acre bi-weekly for 2-3 applications.
APPLICTION
- Introduce in the morning, evening, or when grow lights are off.
- Locate plants with infestation and knock down any webbing, if applicable.
- Lightly mist leaves before introduction.
- Disperse mites onto infested area by sprinkling bottle contents directly onto plants, or pour bottle contents into hanging boxes to concentrate your predators without making a mess. Leave open container in place for 72 hours to allow any remaining mites to be introduced.
- Introduce predatory mites bi-weekly until infestation is under control.
- Locate plants where you want to prevent infestation.
- Hang sachet on plant, out of direct sunlight.
- Introduce slow release sachets every 2-4 weeks to prevent infestation.
Sachets should not be allowed to dry up entirely, and direct sunlight should be avoided. Prolonged moisture and damp environments can cause sachets to degrade or encourage fungal growth.
STORAGE
DISCLAIMER / SHIPPING POLICY
STORE POLICIES
Thank you for shopping with us! Before placing your order, please review our Shipping Policy and Refund and Return Policy. By completing your purchase, you agree to these terms.
We do not provide recommendations on pesticide use. Products are sold for home use only, not commercial use.
QUALITY GUARANTEE
If your beneficial insects or other perishable products are not viable when delivered, email info@naturesgoodguys.sbs within 48 hours of delivery with your order number and a description of the problem. Photos may be requested. Approved replacements ship on Wednesdays and Thursdays.
- Open your package right away and check for storage instructions. Some products need refrigeration, and improper storage voids the guarantee.
- Ice packs help moderate temperature in transit and are not expected to arrive frozen.
- Some insects need time at room temperature before they become active, and many are hard to see without magnification.
SHIPPING
- Processing: 1 to 3 business days. Orders placed by 12:00 pm Pacific may process the same day, but this is not guaranteed.
- Overnight: ships Monday to Thursday, and Friday for addresses with Saturday delivery, excluding holidays.
- Second Day: ships Monday to Wednesday, and Thursday for addresses with Saturday delivery.
- USPS: ships Monday to Friday.
- We do not ship to PO boxes.
Some products are harvested on set days, and we may hold shipments during extreme weather to protect product quality. We will contact you if your order is delayed significantly.
CHANGES AND CANCELLATIONS
Please contact us within 30 minutes of placing your order to change or cancel it.
RETURNS AND REPLACEMENTS
Beneficial insects and other perishable products cannot be returned; they are covered by the Quality Guarantee above. Unopened garden supplies and tools can be returned within 30 days. Full details are in our Refund and Return Policy.
Replacements are not available for an incorrect shipping address, storage or use instructions not followed, or packages left uncollected after delivery.
