Stethorus pauperculus-a promising biological control agent for spider mites infesting papaya

Issue Date

10-2012

Abstract

Field surveys and collections of taxonomic specimen were conducted in several papaya growing areas in Mindanao. Specimens were sorted, identified and host-relationship studies were conducted in the laboratory. The behavioral ecology of the beetle was studied through actual field observations on the nature of the host-predator relationships to verify behavioural data obtained in the laboratory. Stethorus pauperculus beetle are small, black collected and observed preying on spider mites attcking papaya in Mindanao. They prefer eggs and younger stages of mites as prey and usually found in farms not heavily applied with chemicals. Studies are underway to determine how man-made inputs and weather are affecting their field survival and efficacy as a biocontrol agent. Also, regular fields visits and observations will improve understanding of the predatory behaviour and field ecology of the Stethorus beetle and its prey.

Source or Periodical Title

Philippine Entomologist

ISSN

0048-3753

Volume

26

Issue

2

Page

199

Document Type

Article

Frequency

semi-annually

Language

English

En – AGROVOC descriptors

STETHORUS PAUPERCULUS; TETRANYCHIDAE; PAPAYA CARICA; PAPAYAS; INFESTATIONS; BIOLOGICAL CONTROL AGENTS

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