Search Results (116)

Soil-dwelling predatory mites (Acari: Mesostigmata) are key components of decomposer-based soil food webs and contribute to the regulation of soil microarthropods, including agricultural pests. Despite their ecological and applied importance, the predatory mite fauna of Slovenia has remained poorly documented. This study provides the first systematic inventory of soil-dwelling mesostigmatid mites in Slovenia, based on standardized sampling conducted between July and October 2024 and between June and September 2025. Samples were collected from a range of organic substrates, including stable manure, compost, vermicompost, decomposing plant material and forest litter, and mites were extracted using a modified Berlese–Tullgren method. In total, 31 predatory mite taxa belonging to nine families were recorded, with all species except Macrocheles glaber being reported for the first time in Slovenia. Diversity analyses, based on species richness, Shannon index and minimum confirmed abundance, revealed clear differences in community structure among substrate types. Manure- and compost-based substrates showed the highest species richness and abundance, whereas forest litter supported lower diversity but more even communities. Several recorded genera include species with documented or potential relevance for the suppression of soil-dwelling pests such as Rhizoglyphus spp. These findings provide baseline data for future faunistic, ecological and applied research and improve our understanding of predatory mite communities in organically enriched agroecosystems. Full article

The two-spotted spider mite, Tetranychus urticae Koch, is a major arthropod pest that causes substantial economic losses in strawberry and other crops worldwide. Its management often relies on intensive acaricide applications, which may negatively affect human health, the environment, and beneficial organisms. Biological control using predatory mites has been widely adopted under greenhouse conditions, and its success is influenced by several factors, particularly temperature, T. urticae population density, and predator release methods. During the 2023–2024 season, this study evaluated the effects of ambient greenhouse temperature on the population dynamics of T. urticae and on the efficacy of two phytoseiid predators, Phytoseiulus persimilis (Athias-Henriot) and Amblyseius swirskii (Athias-Henriot). The predators were released individually and in combination on strawberry plants. The efficacy of single and combined releases was assessed under three temperature ranges: 25–27 °C, 28–30 °C, and 30–32 °C. The results showed that the mean number of motile T. urticae per plant increased from 21.7 to 95.66, while the mean number per leaf increased from 2.33 to 6.05 during the experimental period. The mean greenhouse temperature ranged from 23.83 °C to 31.88 °C. Temperature was strongly and positively correlated with T. urticae population density, with higher temperatures generally accelerating development and population growth. Both predator species, whether released individually or in combination, significantly reduced T. urticae populations compared with untreated control plants. Amblyseius swirskii demonstrated greater efficacy than P. persimilis at temperatures above 28 °C. However, the combined release consistently achieved the highest level of mite suppression across all temperature ranges. Significantly greater population reduction was observed at approximately 25–26 °C compared with single-species releases, while maximum effectiveness occurred at temperatures above 28 °C. These findings indicate that the combined use of P. persimilis and A. swirskii represents an effective biological control strategy for managing T. urticae in greenhouse-grown strawberries, particularly under elevated and fluctuating temperature conditions. Full article

Predatory mites are key natural enemies in perennial crops, and their conservation is fundamental to ensure biocontrol of several pests. Yet their susceptibility to insecticides may compromise their role in Integrated Pest Management (IPM). In the past, pyrethroids proved to be poorly selective insecticides towards predatory mites, but in various countries their use recently increased in fruit orchards to counteract invasive pests. In this study, we assessed the effects of pyrethroids on the predatory mite Amblyseius andersoni through field experiments in apple orchards and laboratory assays on different strains. Field trials showed that A. andersoni populations remained unaffected by pyrethroid applications. Laboratory assays revealed intraspecific variation in A. andersoni populations: one commercial strain was highly susceptible to deltamethrin, whereas other commercial or field-collected strains were not affected, with no apparent sub-lethal effect on fecundity. These results underscore the contrasting susceptibility among predatory mite strains. From an IPM perspective, the lack of susceptibility to pyrethroids in A. andersoni may sustain biological control where insecticide use is unavoidable. Our findings stress the importance of evaluation procedures in toxicological studies, in particular the need to compare different strains, and of further investigation on predatory mite resistance. The implications for conservation programs in perennial cropping systems are addressed hereafter. Full article

Psocids are difficult to manage using insecticides, hence the need for alternatives including biological control. Evaluation of data from two separate studies was conducted. One study investigated the potential of Cheyletus eruditus (Shrank) (Trombidiformes: Cheyletidae) and Cheyletus malaccensis Oudemans to manage Liposcelis decolor (Pearman) (Psocodea: Liposcelididae), whereas the other investigated the potential of Xylocoris flavipes (Reuter) (Hemiptera: Anthocoridae) to do the same. Temperature and relative humidity conditions were similar in both studies. However, the five predator–prey (P-P) ratios for the mites (0:20, 1:20, 2:20, 4:20 and 10:20) were different from those of X. flavipes (0:240, 1:240, 2:240, 3:240 and 5:240). The three predators demonstrated significant prey suppression; however, the level of control by X. flavipes was higher compared to the mites. At optimal prey conditions of 32 °C and 75% RH, all predators maintained high suppression. Temperature significantly influenced progeny production, with high reproduction observed at 20 and 24 °C for the Cheyletus spp. and at 28 and 32 °C for X. flavipes. Relative humidity of 63% was detrimental to Cheyletus spp. progeny production. While the results from this evaluation for the purpose of comparison should be interpreted cautiously, the different performances of the predators provide valuable insights for biological control of stored-product psocids. Full article

Phytoseiid mites, as effective natural enemies, often experience various environmental stresses, especially extreme HTs under global warming and climate change. However, Neoseiulus californicus from the phytoseiid mite family could endure relatively HT (35–45 °C) exposure. To gain insights into its molecular mechanisms underlying heat adaptation, we conducted a comparative analysis of the transcriptomes exposed at 25 and 45 °C. There were 3117 and 7368 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) identified under the 0.5 and 4 h heat treatments, respectively. The functional enrichment analysis illustrated that DEGs were linked to “catalytic activity”, “metabolic process”, and the “Calcium signaling pathway”. Further DEG annotation and analysis illustrated that the expression of proteins encoding heat shock proteins (HSPs) and protein turnover were significantly induced. We also identified the unigene DN1689_c0 encoding the HSP70 gene (NcHSP70), which exhibited the strongest transcriptional response to heat stress. NcHSP70 inhibition by RNAi suppression had a significant impact on the survival of N. californicus. The ATPase effect of the purified recombinant NcHSP70 protein after HT treatment was significantly elevated. These findings increase our comprehension of the complex molecular mechanisms underlying HT adaptation and determine the important role of NcHSP70 in the heat resistance of N. californicus. Full article

Species sharing the same trophic level can interact not only through competition for resources but also through intraguild predation (IGP). Therefore, an important step toward implementing successful multiple predator releases in biological control strategies requires resolving how predators respond to the presence of heterogeneous competitors. This study examined the compatibility of two predatory mites, N. californicus and P. persimilis, which are both widely employed to suppress two-spotted spider mite populations in greenhouses and open fields. The experiments quantified the frequency and intensity of IGP across different developmental stages of these species on bean leaves, considering scenarios both with and without their shared prey being present. Additionally, a Y-tube olfactometer was employed to assess whether either predator avoided prey patches previously occupied by other heterospecifics, thereby providing insights into potential chemical cues that influence predator behavior. The results revealed that adult females of both predatory mite species predominantly targeted heterospecific eggs and larvae, whereas adults were largely avoided. In the absence of shared prey, N. californicus attacked 83% of the P. persimilis larvae and 37% of the eggs, whereas P. persimilis consumed 67% of the N. californicus eggs. The presence of shared prey reduced IGP risk by approximately 60%. Olfactometer assays revealed no significant avoidance of plants inhabited by heterospecifics at densities of 20 or 40 adults; both predators were similarly attracted to herbivore-induced volatiles. Generalized linear models indicated that host plant experience had a significant influence on the foraging response of N. californicus, whereas the effects of the feeding state weakened over time. Understanding predator foraging plasticity and responsiveness to chemical cues can help optimize biological control strategies in complex agroecosystems. Full article

Recently, ornamental plants in urban and unmanaged landscapes were found to be infected with several plant viruses transmitted by Brevipalpus mites. The main purpose of this research was to identify suitable tools for managing Brevipalpus yothersi in these environments by evaluating the efficacy, persistence, and rainfastness of selected biorational pesticides, as well as their compatibility with the predatory mite Amblyseius largoensis. We found that horticultural oils (i.e., petroleum distillates with varying levels of refinement, marketed as mineral or paraffinic oils) and Beauveria bassiana (Strain GHA) suppressed all developmental stages of B. yothersi at levels comparable to spirodiclofen, a commonly used acaricide for controlling B. yothersi. The paraffinic oil provided the best overall performance across the rainfastness, residuality, and greenhouse evaluations. This food-grade horticultural oil is exempt from residue tolerances and could be readily adopted for B. yothersi control in urban landscapes. Paraffinic oil had adverse effects on predatory mites. However, predator populations recovered after paraffinic oil application, and the combined treatment of paraffinic oil + A. largoensis ultimately provided better control than either the predators or the oil alone. When properly applied, horticultural oils provide a practical option for controlling populations of viruliferous Brevipalpus mites in urban and unmanaged landscapes. Full article

In this study, P. persimilis was provided with T. evansi and T. urticae that had been reared on either bean or potato plants to investigate the effects of both prey and host plant species on the predator’s growth, development, and fitness. The results indicate that the reproductive potential of P. persimilis populations fed T. evansi was significantly lower than that of populations fed T. urticae from the same host plant (p < 0.01). Phytoseiulus persimilis fed T. evansi that had been reared on potatoes showed poorer performance in oviposition period, post-oviposition period, daily egg production, and total egg production compared to those fed T. evansi reared on beans (p < 0.01). The intrinsic rate of increase (r_m) of P. persimilis fed on T. evansi reared on potato was 0.08, which was 55.56% lower than that of populations fed on T. evansi reared on beans. This study sheds light on the complex interactions among host plants, pests, and their natural enemies, thereby providing a theoretical basis for developing more effective and sustainable management strategies against T. evansi that take these intricate ecological relationships into account. Full article

The predatory mite Neoseiulus womersleyi is a key natural enemy in Integrated Pest Management (IPM), but its efficacy is threatened by non-target effects of acaricides like pyridaben. This study evaluated the transgenerational sublethal effects of pyridaben (LC₃₀ and LC₅₀) on N. womersleyi and explored the role of vitellogenin (Vg) genes. Using two-sex life table analysis, we found that exposure reduced longevity, fecundity, and oviposition period in F₀ females, while prolonging immature development and suppressing population growth parameters (r, λ) in F₁. Two Vg genes (NwVg1 and NwVg2) were cloned and characterized; their expression was significantly downregulated by pyridaben. RNAi-mediated silencing of NwVg1 or NwVg2 recapitulated the pyridaben-induced reproductive impairments, confirming their functional role. Our results demonstrate that pyridaben imposes multigenerational costs and that its reproductive toxicity is mediated, at least in part, through the suppression of Vg synthesis. Full article

Berry crops such as strawberry Fragaria × ananassa (Weston), raspberry Rubus idaeus L., blackberry Rubus ulmifolius Schott, 1818, and blueberry Vaccinium myrtillus L. are economically and nutritionally valuable worldwide. However, the intensive use of synthetic pesticides for pest management in these crops has led to ecological imbalance, pest resistance, and negative effects on non-target organisms and human health. The integration of biological control agents into sustainable integrated pest management (IPM) systems represents an alternative. This review compiles and evaluates current advances in the application of baculoviruses (BVs), entomopathogenic fungi (EPFs), nematodes (EPNs), predatory mites (PMs), and parasitoid wasps (PWs) for pest suppression in berry crops. Emphasis was placed on their ecological interactions, host specificity, and compatibility within IPM frameworks. The combined use of micro- and macrobiological control agents effectively reduces key pest populations. However, field efficacy remains influenced by abiotic stressors such as UV radiation, temperature fluctuations, and chemical incompatibility. The integration of native micro- and macrobiological control agents of through conservation biological control (CBC) strategies can enhance sustainability in berry production systems. Future efforts should focus on formulation improvements, adaptive management under field conditions, and synergistic interactions among microbial and arthropod natural enemies. Full article

The objective of this study is to evaluate the effects of botanical oils on the mortality of the phytophagous mite Tetranychus urticae, the predatory mite Amblyseius swirskii, and on gas exchange in papaya seedlings. Two vegetable oils (soybean and corn), two essential oils (lavender and oregano), a synthetic pesticide (abamectin), and a control (water) were evaluated on papaya seedlings infested with T. urticae. In laboratory assays, within the first day after application, abamectin caused 100% mortality of T. urticae adults, followed closely by soybean (96%), corn (94.7%), and lavender (94.7%) oils. In A. swirskii, abamectin caused 100% mortality within 24 h; at 72 h, corn and lavender oils reached 96%, while oregano oil caused the least mortality (67.3%). In field trials, both abamectin and botanical oils statistically reduced eggs per leaf 24 h after application relative to the control, and a similar pattern was observed for nymphs 48 h after treatment. Botanical oils equaled abamectin in T. urticae adult suppression by 72 h, and soybean caused complete adult mortality by day 14. Regarding gas exchange, abamectin significantly affected the photosynthesis and transpiration processes. Thus, botanical oils represent viable biorational options for managing T. urticae in papaya, with lower ecological and physiological costs than abamectin. Full article

Industrial hemp (Cannabis sativa subsp. sativa L.) is an emerging crop in Florida, generating $445 million in 2024. However, it is highly susceptible to acarine pests, including spider mites (Tetranychidae), broad mites (Tarsonemidae), and russet mites (Eriophyidae). Management options are limited due to a few federally registered products approved by the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (FDACS-DPI). Laboratory bioassays were conducted on hemp leaf discs infested with Tetranychus urticae, T. gloveri, Polyphagotarsonemus latus, or Aculops cannabicola, and treated with biorational pesticides (citric acid, rosemary, thyme, sesame, garlic, and mineral oil) at maximum label rates. Citric acid and garlic oil were most efficacious against T. urticae, while garlic and thyme oils were most efficacious against the other species, causing over 80% mortality. Greenhouse trials confirmed the efficacy of citric acid and garlic oil against T. urticae, achieving 60–80% mortality within 24 h. Predatory mites (Amblyseius swirskii, A. andersoni, Neoseiulus californicus, Galendromus occidentalis) were evaluated against A. cannabicola, with A. swirskii showing the highest predation (≈20 adults/24 h) and reproduction. Compatibility tests indicated thyme and garlic oils did not significantly affect A. swirskii survival (>70% alive after 24 h). These findings support integrated pest management strategies for hemp acarine pests. Full article

The predatory mite Amblyseius swirskii is widely used as a biological control agent against phloem-feeding pests in vegetable production. However, its mass rearing is constrained by the lack of standardized and cost-effective artificial diets (ADs). In this study, the effects of various AD compositions on the development and viability of A. swirskii were assessed at lab-scale. A basal diet was supplemented with eggs of Sitotroga cerealella, Galleria mellonella, Tetranychus turkestani, and decapsulated Artemia salina cysts. The feeder mite Carpoglyphus lactis served as a control. Developmental duration, survival, adult longevity, feeding intensity, and fertility were evaluated. The shortest pre-imaginal development (2.9 ± 0.1 days) and highest survival (78%) were observed on S. cerealella eggs, while the longest adult lifespan (10.5 ± 0.3 days) and weakest survival (38%) occurred with A. salina. In contrast, G. mellonella eggs proved to be the least suitable, resulting in minimal survival and reproduction. Study findings support S. cerealella and A. salina as promising AD components, with further optimization needed for improving reproductive output. Full article

Mites and thrips often infest strawberry crops across the globe, with devastating outcomes for growers. In fact, Tetranychus urticae Koch and Scirtothrips dorsalis Hood are major pests of strawberries in Florida, USA, often infesting plants at the same time. Chemical control is ineffective because both pests have developed resistance to many pesticides; therefore, many growers are presently utilizing predatory mites. Currently, Amblyseius swirskii Anthis-Henriot is released for S. dorsalis and Phytoseiulus persimilis Athias-Henriot for T. urticae, but this dual-release strategy is costly and can reduce effectiveness since A. swirskii can prey on P. persimilis. This study evaluated whether Neoseiulus californicus (McGregor) could provide a single practical alternative for managing both pests. We assessed its feeding preference in laboratory using no-choice and choice tests where an adult predator was offered different life stages of T. urticae and larvae of S. dorsalis. Results showed that in no-choice tests, N. californicus consumed more T. urticae eggs compared to T. urticae adults. Also, S. dorsalis larvae and T. urticae deutonymphs were consumed in similar proportions. In choice tests, feeding shifted toward mobile prey with higher consumption of S. dorsalis larvae and T. urticae deutonymphs and adults. These results demonstrate that N. californicus is a flexible predator with potential to control both pests and should be investigated further for its potential as a cost-effective tool in strawberry pest management. Full article

Chrysanthemum morifolium Ramat. is a major ornamental crop that suffers from diverse fungal, bacterial, viral, and insect pests, causing significant yield and quality losses. Between 2015 and 2025, rapid progress in molecular biology, genomics, and ecological regulation has advanced both fundamental research and applied control strategies. Multi-locus sequencing, multiplex PCR, and next-generation sequencing refined the identification of fungal and bacterial pathogens, while functional studies of WRKY, MYB, and NAC transcription factors revealed key resistance modules. Hormone-mediated signaling pathways, particularly those of salicylic acid, jasmonic acid, and abscisic acid, were shown to play central roles in host defense. Despite these advances, durable genetic resistance against bacterial pathogens and broad-spectrum defense against viruses remains limited. Novel technologies, including virus-free propagation, RNA interference, and spray-induced gene silencing, have shown promising outcomes. For insect pests, studies clarified the damage and virus-vectoring roles of aphids and thrips, and resistance traits linked to trichomes, terpenoids, and lignin have been identified. Biocontrol agents such as Trichoderma spp., Bacillus spp., predatory mites, and entomopathogenic fungi have also demonstrated efficacy. Future efforts should integrate molecular breeding, genome editing, RNA-based tools, and microbiome management to achieve sustainable chrysanthemum protection. Full article