Predatory mite

Amblyseius andersoni

Amblyseius andersoni is a pear-shaped, pale beige predatory mite, the adults of which are less than 1 mm long. This species will feed on several species of spider mites and a wide range of other prey and alternative food, including some russet mites, various small insect species, pollen, aphid honeydew, and the spores of some fungi. It can also survive short periods without food.

Amblyseius andersoni can tolerate a relatively wide range of temperatures, although it does best at temperatures above 20°C (68°F) and relative humidities of 65% or higher. This species can remain active at relatively high temperatures (30—35°C (86-95°F)), although adult life span and egg production are reduced at the upper end of this range. At 25°C (77°F), the life-cycle (egg to adult) can be completed in approximately 6 days, and at this temperature females may live approximately 28 days and lay a total of about 40 eggs.

The relatively long lifespan of A.andersoni, together with its tolerance of high temperatures and ability to utilize a wide range of alternative food make it a good complement to P. persimilis for spider mite management.