Side-effects of a number of insecticides on predatory mites in apple orchards

Background: Amblyseius andersoni is a common predatory mite occurring in fruit orchards located Europe and North America. Its role preventing spider outbreaks widely recognized, particular when selective pesticides are used. The compatibility between plant protection products mites crucial to preserve their activity. There need investigate the effects of on beneficials using multiple approaches. Objectives: Field laboratory experiments were conducted evaluate number insecticides A. andersoni. Methods: neonicotinoids (i.e., acetamiprid, imidacloprid, thiacloprid, thia-methoxam) compared with those pyrethroids tau-fluvalinate), well known for negative impact mites. Insecticides applied 1-3 times an experimental orchard Northern Italy. Laboratory trials focused survival fecundity females. Results: showed decline numbers plots treated or tau-fluvalinate untreated control. However, neonicotinoid reached higher densities recorded plots. Spider (Panonychus ulmi) populations moderate high while negligible remaining was moderately affected by some they significantly reduced fecundity. In contrast exerted severe Finally, escaping rate increased after pesticide exposure suggesting possible alterations behavior. Conclusions: Neonicotinoid applications field conditions this phenomenon appeared be influenced female Their less severe. Implications these results IPM tactics discussed.