Mites for the control of pests in protected cultivation

Abstract

The production of crops under protected conditions is increasing worldwide. Owing to growing consumer demands for healthy and green produce, and intensifying pesticide resistance, non-chemical solutions--foremost among which is biological control--are being sought. The authors review recent advances related to the application of predatory mites for the control of greenhouse pests, and discuss interactions among acarine biocontrol agents (ABAs) and the effects of crop plants and new technologies on ABAs, such as artificial lighting, elevated carbon dioxide levels and genetically modified organisms. This is followed by a discussion of the problems associated with the search for and use of new ABAs, including management, the benefits of modelling and avenues of future research.

Seasonal climatic variations influence the efficacy of predatory mites used for control of western flower thrips in greenhouse ornamental crops

“…Low tolerance exists because the entire plant may be sold to the consumer, and it is therefore imperative that leaves and flowers are cosmetically perfect (Gerson & Weintraub, 2007). Pests that cause such economic losses are often termed aesthetic pests (Pedigo & Rice, 2009).…”

“…(Gerson & Weintraub, 2007;Heinz et al, 2004;Yano, 2006). However, Frankliniella occidentalis (Pergande) (Thysanoptera: Thripidae), commonly known as western flower thrips (WFT), is the most important insect pest of greenhouse ornamental production (Buitenhuis et al, 2007;Heinz et al, 2004).…”

“…This strategy involves the investigation of the ecology of the insect pest as it relates to the crop, and searches for a vulnerability in the seasonal cycle of the pest to exploit. Most techniques involve disruption of development through modifications to feeding and movement behaviours, modifications to food sources and, consequently, altered reproductive behaviours (Gerson & Weintraub, 2007;Pedigo & Rice, 2009 (Gerson & Weintraub, 2007;Pedigo & Rice, 2009), as well as plant breeding techniques to confer resistance to WFT or to make the plant less attractive (Heinz et al, 2004). Buitenhuis et al (2007) used "trap plants" in greenhouse chrysanthemum production systems as a means of distracting thrips from the actual crop.…”

“…With only one chemical that is effective against thrips registered for use in Canada, biological control is expected to play an increasing role in the control of thrips populations. In addition, to avoid harm to BCAs, greenhouse operators must choose to control all pests without the use of pesticides, or by using only 'predator-friendly' pesticides (Gerson & Weintraub, 2007).…”

“…Table 1.1 outlines the known predatory mite species for thrips control. (Gerson & Weintraub, 2007;Heinz et al, 2004;Wiethoff et al, 2004) * Geolaelaps aculeifer (Canestrini) and Stratiolaelaps scimitus (Wormersley) are members of the Laelapidae, not Phytoseiidae…”