Ecological Entomology (2001) 26, 562-570

J.J. Beard and G.H. Walter (2001)
Host plant specificity in several species of generalist mite predators
Ecological Entomology 26 (6), 562-570
Abstract: 1. Species in the genus Neoseiulus are considered to be generalist predators, with some species used in biological control programmes against phytophagous mites and insects.
2. A general survey of Neoseiulus species in inland Australia indicated that different species are associated with particular tree species. This pattern of host plant use was investigated for four Neoseiulus species (N. buxeus, N. cappari, N. brigarinus, N. eremitus) by means of a sampling programme through time and across space.
3. Each species of Neoseiulus was collected entirely or mostly from one species of tree; little or no overlap was detected despite the tree species growing in well-mixed stands. Host plant specificity thus appears to be strong in this genus.
4. Species in two other genera (Pholaseius and Australiseiulus), also considered to be predatory, showed a similar association with particular tree species.
5. The implications for the use of these predators in biological control are considerable. In particular, phytoseiid species with specific needs in terms of host plants may not be suitable for use as general purpose predators. Meeting the needs of phytoseiids through the modification of host plant attributes may be a step towards enhancing their efficacy as biological control agents.
(The abstract is excluded from the Creative Commons licence and has been copied with permission by the publisher.)
Link to article at publishers website
Database assignments for author(s): Gimme H. Walter

Research topic(s) for pests/diseases/weeds:
biocontrol - natural enemies
Research topic(s) for beneficials or antagonists:
environment/habitat manipulation

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Pest and/or beneficial records:

Beneficial	Pest/Disease/Weed	Crop/Product	Country	Quarant.
Neoseiulus (genus - predators)