Dominance and frequency of predatory mites in stored products in Greece.

Abstract

AbstractDuring a two-year (1999-2000) survey of the mite fauna of stored products in Greece, predatory mites were collected from various stored products from different localities. The survey was conducted on grains (wheat, maize, oats, barley), flour (wheat, maize), legumes and dried fruits (figs, raisins, sultanas) stored in varying quantities in different types of storage facilities, such as large concrete silos, warehouses, flat granaries, farm stores, flour mills and household premises. The greatest presence of predatory mites was recorded in grain. Fourteen taxa of predatory mites, belonging to two orders and six families, were recorded. The most abundant and frequent species was Cheyletus malaccensis, followed in decreasing order by Blattisocius keegani, Cheyletus eruditus, Acaropsis docta [Acaropsellina docta] and Blattisocius tarsalis. Differences in composition of predatory mite fauna among product categories were also noted.