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Dynamics and potential impact of ‘generalist’ phytoseiids in agroecosystems and possibilities for establishment of exotic species

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Abstract

‘Generalists’, i.e. those species which consume a wide variety of foods, including some of plant origin such as pollen, are the dominant members of the phytoseiid mite fauna in some perennial crops. Biological attributes commonly evident in ‘generalist’ in contrast to ‘specialist’ phytoseiids include a lower reproductive potential on mite prey, close association with certain plant species, population increases in the absence of mite prey, and intraplant distribution unrelated to that of spider mites. Some studies are reviewed that suggest the ability of certain generalist phytoseiids to maintain tetranychid populations at low densities. Possible biological factors influencing the establishment of exotic generalist phytoseiids are considered. Some of the attributes usually considered important in effective phytoseiid predators may be of minor importance in more stable situations at low population densities.

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  1. Department of Entomology, University of California, 92521, Riverside, CA, USA

    J. A. McMurtry

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McMurtry, J.A. Dynamics and potential impact of ‘generalist’ phytoseiids in agroecosystems and possibilities for establishment of exotic species. Exp Appl Acarol 14, 371–382 (1992). https://doi.org/10.1007/BF01200574

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