Taurrus LIVE Biological Mite Control - M | Reptile Vivarium

Taurrus LIVE Biological Mite Control - M is a living predatory mite solution designed to tackle parasitic mite infestations in reptile vivariums without the use of chemical pesticides. It is suited to keepers dealing with active infestations or those looking to prevent mite establishment in the first place, and is safe for reptiles, mammals, and the environment.

Why Reptile Mites Are a Serious Problem

Snake mites (Ophionyssus natricis) are among the most damaging parasites a captive reptile can face. They feed on the host's blood, stripping vital nutrients and leaving animals anaemic, stressed, and significantly more vulnerable to illness. Beyond the physical drain, mites introduce pathogens directly into the bloodstream during feeding — infestations that go unchecked can be fatal. Conventional chemical treatments such as neonicotinoids and pyrethroids carry their own risks to reptiles, and parasites can develop resistance to them over time.

A Biological Approach to Mite Control

Taurrus LIVE Biological Mite Control - M uses a living population of predatory mites to hunt and destroy reptile parasites naturally. These predators target Ophionyssus natricis and other acari parasite species, actively seeking them out across the vivarium. Critically, they do not feed on reptiles or mammals — only on the parasites themselves.

How the Predatory Mites Work

• Adults measure under 1mm; larvae are white, adults range from orange to brown in colour
• Despite their size, they attack and kill prey up to three to four times larger than themselves
• Once released, they reproduce in areas where prey is present, sustaining the population while parasites remain
• When the parasite population is eliminated, the predators naturally die off — no manual removal needed
• Mode of action takes several days: expect stabilisation of the mite population first, followed by a gradual decline
• Heavy infestations may require more than one release to achieve full control

Ideal Vivarium Conditions

Predatory mites thrive in warm, humid environments, making a well-maintained terrarium an excellent habitat for them to establish and work effectively. Natural substrates — coco fibre, peat, or moss — provide ideal conditions for the predators to move through and locate their prey. This size treats one to two vivariums curatively, or up to four vivariums as a preventative measure.

For reptile keepers who want a targeted, chemical-free approach to mite control, Taurrus LIVE Biological Mite Control - M provides a proven biological solution that works with the vivarium environment rather than against it.