Distribution of Mites Inhabiting Agricultural Importance, with Emphasis on Predators Role in Pest Control

Gazoly, Aya H.; Abo-Shnaf, Reham; Ali, Fatma S.

doi:10.21608/eajbsa.2023.329416

Distribution of Mites Inhabiting Agricultural Importance, with Emphasis on Predators Role in Pest Control

Document Type : Original Article

Authors

¹ Zoology and Agricultural Nematology Department, Faculty of Agriculture, Cairo University, Giza, Egypt.

² Vegetable and Aromatic Plant Mites Department, Plant Protection Research Institute, Agricultural Research Centre, 12611 Dokii, Giza, Egypt.

10.21608/eajbsa.2023.329416

Abstract

The current study demonstrated the frequency and prevalence of various mite species on various vegetation types in the Egyptian governorates of Giza and Monufia. Between June 2019 and July 2021, samples were collected monthly from leaves, litter, and soil of fruit trees, vegetable crops, and ornamental plants at both locations. Leave samples were examined directly; however, soil and litter samples were extracted using modified Tullgren funnels. The mite survey revealed the occurrence of 19 predatory mite species belonging to four mesostigmatic families and three prostigmatic families. Nine of which are predatory species belong to the family Phytoseiidae and some of these predators are commercially produced as biological control agents such as Phytoseiulus persimilis Athias-Henriot, Euseius scutalis (Athias-Henriot), Neoseiulus californicus (McGregor) and Amblyseius swirskii Athias-Henriot that have been successfully applied in many countries and play an important role in control of mite pests. The presence of them is related to six species of plant-feeding mites from two families (Tetranychidae and Tenuipalpidae). In addition to three mite species with uncertain feeding habits in the family Tydeidae. The relationship between predators and pest reduction is discussed. The frequency of different mite habitats inhabiting several cultivations was mentioned as well. Obtained results are necessarily being considered in biological control decisions.

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