Management of spider mite Tetranychus cinnabarinus (Boisduval) (Tetranychidae) infestation in cotton by releasing the predatory mite Neoseiulus pseudolongispinosus (Xin, Liang and Ke) (Phytoseiidae)

► Biocontrol of Tetranychus cinnabarinus was investigated by using Neoseiulus pseudolongispinosus. ► Predator was applied using different plant numbers of cotton and timing of release. ► Populations of mites during early and mid-season were significant from late release. ► Populations of mites differed significantly when every third plant was treated. ► Release of predator to reduce pest at early stage is useful if every plant treated.