Abstract
Despite the importance of olive trees in Tunisia, very little is known about mite populations. A survey of phytophagous and predatory mites species in 21 orchards distributed over several sites was conducted from 2007 to 2013. During this study, 14 species of predatory mites along with 5 species of phytophagous mites were collected and identified. Almost all species are newly identified from olive trees, five of them are new to the Tunisian fauna and one species is new to Science. This paper provides a catalogue of these species and elements on their biogeographical distribution and biology. Identification keys are also provided. The Phytoseiidae species described in this study may provide new opportunities for the integrated pest management of Eriophyidae and Tenuipalpidae mites on olive trees.
Highlights
The eriophyid mites were first recorded in Tunisia in 1993
The aim of this research is to report the diversity of mites associated with olive trees in Tunisia, and to provide identification keys to facilitate the species identification in the area of production
The mite species collected on olive trees between 2007 and 2013, belong to four families, Eriophyidae, Tenuipalpidae and Tetranychidae for phytophagous mites, and Phytoseiidae for predatory mites (Table 2)
Summary
The eriophyid mites were first recorded in Tunisia in 1993. Since this date, they became serious pests and they cause serious economic damage in olive tree orchards deteriorating oil quality. Chemical control with broad-spectrum miticides is used for mite control. These treatments have serious consequences on health, environment and trade as residues in olives are not acceptable for international exports. The objective is to look for more efficient, bi-control agents against the mite pests on olives in Tunisia.
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