Abstract
The aerial dispersal of citrus rust mite, Phyllocoptruta oleivora (Ashmead), from Florida citrus groves was monitored throughout the 1995 growing season, using silicone grease-coated traps. Trap-catch was not affected by trap elevation, nor was there a consistent effect of wind direction on catch among 3 groves. Significantly more mites were captured in vertically oriented than in slanted traps in 2 of the 3 groves. The seasonal pattern of dispersal showed marked and coincident peaks from mid-September through mid-October at the 3 sites. There was a strong linear relationship between trap-catch and population density on fruit at 2 of 3 sites and when data from the 3 sites were combined. Dispersing mites infected with the entomopathogenic fungus, Hirsutella thompsonii Fisher, were captured in traps at the 3 groves, and the peak capture of infected mites generally coincided with the peak and decline of trap-catch. Mites were captured up to 135 m from an infested grove, and the mean ± SD dispersal distance under the prevailing conditions was 10.95 ± 20.34 m. The majority of mites captured during 1-h trapping intervals were alive. These results are discussed in relation to the population dynamics of citrus rust mite and to current trends in pest management practices in Florida citrus.
Published Version (
Free)
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a call