Otherwise higher release rates can be used. Hypoapsis miles is a soil dwelling, predatory mite which feeds on fungus gnats, thrips pupae and other small insects in the soil. Females are up to 1 mm in size and are light brown colour. They will not work in water logged conditions, but can tolerate quite hot conditions. Most effective when applied before fungus gnat populations become a problem.
Predators feed on fly eggs and young larvae.
Mites are long lived and will survive up to 7 weeks even in the absence of prey in many situations. Mites are best applied to the soil surface which they then penetrate to commence feeding. They are most active in the top 2 to 3 cm of potting media. If mixed into the media prior to potting up many predators will be wasted. Hypoapsis moves well on soil surfaces so it is not critical to apply to all flats or pots.