This predatory mite has been produced commercially for many years in Europe. It feeds on the larval stages of thrips and some mites. It is part of a large group of predatory mites called Phytoseids.
This species is now available in Australia. Typhlodromips montdorensis, a species indigenous to Australia has also been developed as a biocontrol of thrips for use in Australia.
The adult predatory mite is cream coloured, while the younger stages are clear. Both forms are pear-shaped and fast-moving. Predator eggs are clear and slightly oval and about 1.5 times the size of a twospotted mite egg.
Cucumeris feed on 1st and 2nd instar thrips larvae.
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