Applied Entomology and Zoology (2006) 41, 633-639

Mitsuhiro Kawashima, Ishizue Adachi and Masatoshi Toyama (2006)
Artificial microstructure encouraging the colonization of the predacious mite, Neoseiulus californicus (McGregor) (Acari: Phytoseiidae)
Applied Entomology and Zoology 41 (4), 633-639
Abstract: In order to develop an artificial habitat encouraging the colonization efficiency of phytoseiid mites on fruit trees, we conducted choice experiments with a predacious phytoseiid mite, Neoseiulus californicus, using 22 types of artificial microstructures (3 cm×3 cm, less than 1 cm thick) in the laboratory. Large numbers of N. californicus preferred fine-textured urethane foam and a shading net, although the locations where N. californicus settled on each microstructure were different: more than 80% of N. californicus adults preferred being 'on a plastic board under fine-textured urethane foam', while more than 95% preferred being 'on and in the shading net itself'. With respect to their practical use on fruit trees, shading nets are useful, because their size and thickness can be changed easily and they are also effective tools to transfer phytoseiid mites to trees with low phytoseiid densities. Thus, shading nets were considered to be the best candidate for an artificial habitat of phytoseiid mites on fruit trees.
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Research topic(s) for pests/diseases/weeds:
biocontrol - natural enemies
Research topic(s) for beneficials or antagonists:
general biology - morphology - evolution
environment/habitat manipulation

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Pest and/or beneficial records:

Beneficial	Pest/Disease/Weed	Crop/Product	Country	Quarant.
Neoseiulus californicus (predator)