Open AccessEffectiveness of Neomolgus capillatus (Kramer) (Acarina: Bdellidae) as a Predator of Sminthurus viridis (L.) (Collembola: Sminthuridae) in Northwestern Tasmania
Author(s) -
IRESON J. E.,
WEBB W. R.
Publication year - 1995
Publication title -
australian journal of entomology
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
eISSN - 1440-6055
pISSN - 1326-6756
DOI - 10.1111/j.1440-6055.1995.tb01330.x
Subject(s) - biology , predator , spring (device) , ecology , predation , mite , biological pest control , zoology , mechanical engineering , engineering
Autumn populations of lucerne flea, Sminthurus viridis , have been reduced by about 95% to non‐damaging levels in north‐west Tasmania by the addition of the introduced predator the spiny snout mite, Neomolgus capillatus , to the established predator complex. Low activity of N. capillatus in early spring reduced its ability to control S. viridis later in spring. the possible use of an additional predator, a whirligig mite, Anystis wallacei Otto, that could improve control of spring populations is discussed.