Abstract:

These days, the use of plant extracts plays an important role in the control of the two-spotted spider mite [Tetranychus urticae Koch (Acari: Tetranychidae)], which causes economic damage to many cultivated plants. In addition, the beneficial mite Phytoseiulus persimilis Athias-Henriot (Acari: Phytoseiidae) present in nature is actively used in the control of this pest. It is thought that the use of beneficial mites and plant extracts together, especially in agricultural areas, may be effective in pest control. However, investigating the effects of plant extracts on beneficial as well as pests will contribute to the success of the struggle. In this study, it was aimed to determine the toxic effects of commercial formulation of unlicensed orange oil on mites at different doses (0.2, 0.4, 0.5, and 0.6 ml 100 ml-1 water) on adult females of the predatory mite P. persimilis. The study was established in laboratory conditions, using plexiglass plates, and spraying on female individuals placed on bean [Phaseolus vulgaris (Fabaceae)] leaves, with 5 replications. After the application, dead and live counts were made at the 1st, 24th, 48th, 72nd, and 96th hours. As a result of the study the highest mortality rate for P. persimilis was determined in the 96th hour counts with a 52% mortality rate at 0.6 ml 100 ml-1 water application dose. As a result, it was determined that different concentrations of applied orange oil had toxic effects on predator mite P. persimilis individuals at different rates.

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