Distribution and predators of the invasive spider mite Tetranychus evansi (Acari: Tetranychidae) in the Syrian coastal region, with first record of predation by the native Scolothrips longicornis (Thysanoptera: Thripidae)

The tomato red spider mite, Tetranychus evansi Baker and Pritchard, has emerged as a destructive invasive pest of solanaceous crops worldwide. It was first recorded in Syria 2011, Latakia governorate, the coastal region. Successful management T. given region benefits from information about its distribution, host plants, associated natural enemies. Therefore, we investigated, 2019 2020, status on plants Syrian region, an important producer crops. A total 237 samples were collected at 187 sites Tartus governorates. found 34 cultivated wild plant 29 distributed across all districts those governorates, variety landscapes elevations, ranging plains to high altitudes Coastal Mountain Range. three crops, namely (Solanum lycopersicum L.), eggplant melongena L.) potato tuberosum well two plants: black nightshade nigrum villosum Mill.). 14 species predatory insects mites, five phytophagous identified association with evansi. Predatory more frequent abundant than mites. insect predator Feltiella acarisuga (Vallot) most common among predators, followed by Stethorus gilvifrons (Mulsant) Scolothrips longicornis Priesner. mite Phytoseiulus persimilis Athias-Henriot