Stratiolaelaps scimitus

Formerly widely known as Hypoaspis miles.

Type

Soil predatory mite

Target pests

• Sciarid Flies

Notes

Works in substrate to suppress larvae and pupae.

IPM positioning

Preventative soil predator targeting sciarid larvae, thrips pupae and vine weevil eggs.

Best deployment strategy

• Apply preventatively early to establish a soil predator layer.
• Maintain evenly moist substrate; avoid drying cycles that reduce activity.
• Combine with nematodes when larval pressure is high (sciarid/thrips pupae).

Compatibility notes

• Works well with: Atheta Coriaria for a more robust soil predator community.
• Works well with: Steinernema Feltiae for curative knockdown during high larval pressure.

Environmental preferences

• Soil predator: requires evenly moist substrate and stable conditions.
• Reduced performance in dry substrates; avoid drying cycles.
• Moderate temperatures support best persistence.