Breeding persimmons

Cultivation of Persimilis (Phytoseiulus persimilis) as one of the important natural predators for the biological control of spider mites requires compliance with certain principles. These predators reproduce in controlled environments and with proper nutrition of spider mites. The following are the steps and key points of Cultivation of Persimilis:

1. Choosing the right environment

• Temperature: Persimilis performs best at temperatures of 20 to 30 degrees Celsius. The ideal temperature is around 25°C.
• Humidity: A relative humidity of between 60% and 90% is essential, as a dry environment can reduce their survival.
• Light: These predators require natural or artificial light of moderate intensity.

2. Provide adequate food

• The main food of the persimmilis is spider mites (Tetranychus urticae). For successful breeding:
  • Promote spider mites on plants such as beans, strawberries, or cucumbers.
  • The plants should be free of chemical toxins that can harm predators.

3. Preparing the breeding environment

• Culture containers: Use plastic boxes, aquariums, or culture trays for breeding.
• Ventilation: The breeding environment should be well ventilated to prevent the growth of fungi or diseases.
• Substrate: Use plants with broad, flat leaves to grow the spider mites and the persimmilis feeding.

4. Reproduction process

1. Transferring spider mites to the breeding medium: Infect the host plants with spider mites and allow the mite population to increase.
2. Adding presimilis: After the mite population has increased, transfer the presimilis to the environment.
3. Monitoring: Regularly check the number of predators and mites. If the mite population decreases, add new food.

5. Harvesting and Packaging

• After propagating the persimmons, you can collect them and prepare them in special packaging for sale or use in farms and greenhouses.
• Persimmons should be stored at a temperature of 8 to 12 degrees Celsius and sent to the place of consumption as soon as possible.

6. Important points

• Pest control: Prevent other pests or competitive predators from entering the breeding environment.
• Pesticide use: Eliminate chemical pesticides in the breeding environment, as they can harm predators.
• Population management: Prevent excessive reproduction of spider mites to prevent contamination of the breeding environment.

7. Equipment Required

• Thermometer and hygrometer for monitoring environmental conditions.
• Healthy and suitable host plants.
• Storage and shipping containers for holding the presimilis.

End Use

Presimilis Hunter is widely used in farms, greenhouses, and orchards for biological control of mites and is an excellent alternative to chemical methods.