Resistant genotypes and biological control for the integrated management of Tetranychus evansi (Acari: Tetranychidae) on tomato

Abstract

The tomato red spider mite, Tetranychus evansi Baker & Pritchard (Acari: Tetranychidae), is an invasive tomato pest in several countries, with the potential to reduce yield by up to 90% in Africa. Due to the high biotic potential of the pest, the management focused on the use of synthetic pesticides is often not efficient or unsustainable over time, requiring the integration with other control methods. Previous studies found in wild genotypes expressive source of resistance (glandular trichomes) that could be explored to increase resistance level of varieties of interest to this pest. Furthermore, Phytoseiulus longipes Evans (Phytoseiidae), found in South America, proved to be a promising predatory mite of T. evansi. However, the incorporation of this predatory mite into IPM programs requires detailed knowledge of its interactions with other management practices.