Evaluation of selected crops for rearing predatory mite (Phytoseiulus persimilis), a predator of two-spotted red spider mites

Abstract

The damage caused by two-spotted spider mites, and the risks associated with chemical pesticides, including health and environmental risks necessitate the exploration of sustainable pest management methods. Predatory mites, such as Phytoseiulus persimilis, are effective biocontrol agents against pests like the two-spotted spider mite (Tetranychus urticae). Thus, this study aimed to evaluate the suitability of different crops for rearing predatory mites (Phytoseiulus persimilis) and assess their effectiveness in controlling two-spotted spider mites (Tetranychus urticae). Linear regression analysis showed significant effects of selected crops on mite populations across all collection times (Collection 1: F(3, 8) = 22.46, p =0.0003; Collection 2: F(3, 8) = 11.45, p = 0.0029; and Collection 3: F(3, 8) = 9.17, p = 0.0057). ANOVA showed significant differences in mite counts among the crops (F(3, 32) = 18.06, p < 0.001), corroborated by bootstrapping analysis. Beans demonstrated the highest potential for supporting predatory mite populations, followed by eggplant and black nightshade, illustrating that crop diversification can enhance predatory mite production while suggesting adoption of Integrated pest management (IPM) strategies to reduce pesticide costs and environmental impacts. There is the need for collaborative research and policy support to drive innovation and promote sustainable pest management practices in agriculture, thus addressing pesticide-use related environmental issues.