Beneficial insect community of Moroccan citrus groves: assessment of their potential to enhance biocontrol services

Abstract

In citrus groves, beneficial insects that reduce abundance of pests are considered a key component of integrated pest management strategies. The aim of this article was to assess the biodiversity of parasitoids and predators in citrus orchards in Moroccoto facilitate future investigations on their potential as biocontrol agents. Data of 105 citrus beneficial insects were gathered and summarized in a data matrix. Variables such nature, target pests, type, establishment, and efficacy were assessed. More than two-thirds of parasitoids and predators species identified in citrus groves of Morocco (105 species) are native (> 70%). Both groups represent only a small fraction of the introduced species. The mostly attack armored scale insects (Diaspididae) and aphids (Aphididae). The ladybeetle Rodolia cardinalis (Mulsant) (Coleoptera: Coccinellidae) is the first beneficial species introduced in 1921 to the Moroccan citrus orchards to control the cottony cushion scale Icerya purchasi (Maskell) (Hemiptera: Monophlebidae). Major introductions of these parasitoids and predators were carried out during the ninetieth to control the main citrus pests whereas they were accidentally introduced. These purposely introduced species are mainly Aphelinidae, Encyrtidae, Eulophidae, Coccinellidae, and Phytoseiidae. Whereas a high proportion of the introduced beneficial insects was established and no species have been reported to be harmful to this date. Considering only the introduced species used in classical biological control context, about 20 and 40% of them are considered as effective or partially effective, respectively.

Evaluation of the Varietal Impact of Two Citrus Species on Fluctuations of Tetranychus urticae (Acari: Tetranychidae) and Beneficial Phytoseiid Mites

“…A study conducted in Italy showed that the simultaneous release of beneficial phytoseiid mites, Amblyseius aberrans and Typhlodromus pyri, in a vineyard infested by Panonychus ulmi provided significant control [43]. In Morocco, the new introduction in citrus orchards of the predators Neoseiulus californicus McGregor (Acari: Phytoseiidae) and Amblyseius swirskii Athias-Henriot (Acari: Phytoseiidae) against the oriental mite Eutetranychus orientalis and T. urticae ensures good results [5]. Similarly, in Spain, the control of T. urticae through releases of the predatory mites P. persimilis, N. californicus, A. swirskii Athias-Henriot, 1962, and Orius laevigatus Fieber, 1860, (Hemiptera: Anthocoridae) showed significant results.…”

“…In comparison, exports to Russia have increased from 45% to 50% of all Moroccan exports [4]. Unfortunately, this sector has been seriously affected in recent years by biotic and abiotic factors [5]. In addition to production and marketing complications, many pests and diseases have reduced the quantity and quality of citrus fruit [6].…”

Current Situation of Tetranychus urticae (Acari: Tetranychidae) in Northern Africa: The Sustainable Control Methods and Priorities for Future Research

“…In Egypt, the releasing of predators Chrysoperla carnea (Steph, 1836), Orius albidipennis (Reuter, 1884), and P. persimilis showed significant control of T. urticae, and it also assured increased crop yield as compared to pesticide application [110]. In Morocco, the new introduction in citrus orchards, such as the predators Neoseiulus californicus and Amblyseius swirskii against Eutetranychus orientalis (Klein, 1936) and T. urticae have produced good results [111]. Similarly, in Spain, the control of T. urticae through releases of the predatory mites Phytoseiulus persimilis, Neoseiulus californicus, Amblyseius swirskii, and Orius laevigatus Fieber, 1860 (Hemiptera: Anthocoridae) showed significant results.…”

Evaluation of the Impact of Different Management Methods on Tetranychus urticae (Acari: Tetranychidae) and Their Predators in Citrus Orchards

“…Euseius stipulatus Athias-Henriot, 1960 (Acari: Phytoseiidae), Phytoseiulus persimilis Athias-Henriot, 1957 (Acari: Phytoseiidae), and Typhlodromus sp. (Acari: Phytoseiidae) are the main predators of T. urticae in many regions of the world [ 16 , 17 ]. Spirodiclofen (Envidor 240 SC, Bayer, SA) is an acaricide of the keto-enol family.…”