Perspectives for the use of predators in the control of phytophagous mites in Brazil

Abstract

Several species of phytophagous mites cause severe damage to the main crops in Brazil. Up to now, those mites are controlled almost exclusively by chemical pesticides. However, there are enough evidences that several phytophagous mites are efficiently controlled naturally or through man's interference by the action of predatory mites of the family Phytoseiidae. The decision on introducing exotic natural enemies or augmenting or conserving native natural enemies depends upon each particular situation, considering available evidences on the level of efficiency of the latter. Rearing and managing natural enemies can be satisfactorily done by the available technology. Such crops as strawberry, cucurbits and papaya, which are systematically attacked by Tetranychus urticae Koch, are particulary indicated to start works of this nature in this country.