Insects (2022) 13 (12 - 1116)

Cristina Castañé, Oscar Alomar, Alfred Rocha, Enric Vila and Jordi Riudavets (2022)
Control of Aculops lycopersici with the predatory mite Transeius montdorensis
Insects 13 (12 - 1116)
Abstract: In this study, the predatory mite Transeius montdorensis (Acari, Phytoseiidae) was tested for the control of the tomato russet mite (TRM) Aculops lycopersici (Acari, Eriophyidae) in experiments with small plants, under semi-field and crop conditions. The releasing strategy consisted of repeatedly introducing the predator together with additional breeding prey. The predator was able to move and disperse to the upper part of the tomato plant where the TRM seeks refuge. At the crop level, significant reductions in TRM populations were observed that resulted in a significantly higher yield compared to the conventional control plot, where pesticides were used to control the pest. Caution should be taken when extreme temperatures or humidity occur as they could be deleterious to the predator population. Hence, crop practices should include the management of environmental parameters in the greenhouse to ensure the success of this TRM-control strategy. In conclusion, this biological approach seems to be an effective measure to control the pest and should be further implemented at crop level.
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Database assignments for author(s): Oscar Alomar, Jordi Riudavets

Research topic(s) for pests/diseases/weeds:
biocontrol - natural enemies
Research topic(s) for beneficials or antagonists:
evaluation - screening - selection

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Pest and/or beneficial records:

Beneficial	Pest/Disease/Weed	Crop/Product	Country	Quarant.
	Aculops lycopersici	Tomato (Solanum lycopersicum)	Spain (continental)
Transeius montdorensis (predator)	Aculops lycopersici	Tomato (Solanum lycopersicum)