Community question

Can I mix Amblyseius cucumeris and Amblyseius andersoni?

I’ve been wondering whether it’s OK to release Amblyseius cucumeris and Amblydromalus andersoni together.

Has anyone tried this? Do they complement each other, or do they end up competing? I’m mainly thinking about using them as part of a preventative programme rather than waiting for pests to build up.

Interested to hear what has worked for other people.

Open · asked by Bugboy

Detected topics

Beneficial: Neoseiulus Cucumeris

Tags: Andersoni, cucumeris

Answers

✅ Verified by Biopredator

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Yes, in many cases they can be used together, but it depends on what you’re trying to achieve.

Amblyseius cucumeris is mainly used as a preventative predator for young thrips larvae and can also feed on pollen, helping it establish before pests become a problem.

Amblyseius andersoni is more of a generalist. It will feed on spider mites, broad mites, rust mites, whitefly eggs, thrips larvae and pollen, making it a useful “all-rounder” in many crops.

Because they occupy slightly different niches, many growers use them together as part of a preventative IPM programme. There may be some competition if food is scarce, but in a healthy crop with pollen and low pest levels this is usually not a major issue.

As always, the best combination depends on the crop, temperatures, humidity, target pests and what other beneficials you’re using. If you’re unsure, it’s worth asking your supplier for crop-specific advice.

Biopredator · Admin

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