Neoseiulus fallacis - Description

Neoseiulus Fallacis, akin to its cousin Californicus, shares similar aggressiveness as a Type II predator. Studied extensively by scientists, Fallacis employs unique survival strategies, such as overwintering in soil and cover crop, entering diapause—a hibernation-like state—at lower temperatures than its target pests. This attribute makes it particularly effective for mid-spring planting, as it remains active while pests are still dormant, making it compatible with early preventative IPM strategies alongside Hypoaspis Miles. Fallacis is widely distributed throughout North America and certain tropical zones, extensively used on coastal California strawberry farms and Southern Oregon mint farms. Recognizable by its eight legs and pear-shaped body with varying brownish-red hues. Thriving in cooler climates, these predatory mites can survive winter by sheltering in plant crevices, emerging to lay spherical, transparent eggs near pest populations. Upon hatching, larvae progress through two nymphal stages, gradually developing four pairs of legs while preying on larger spider mite nymphs until reaching adulthood. Throughout their 30-day lifespan, adult Fallacis voraciously consume spider mites across all life stages.