The newcomer takes it all: the invader Texas citrus mite, Eutetranychus banksi (Acari: Tetranychidae), displaces the resident relatives in citrus agrosystems

Abstract Many studies have emphasized the importance of interspecific competition in shaping natural ecosystem communities. In contrast, few investigations explored role agricultural environments after arrival an invasive pest species. We evaluated ecological impact produced by Texas citrus mite, Eutetranychus banksi (McGregor), on resident spider mites Panonychus citri (McGregor) and orientalis (Klein) main crop area Eastern Spain. Since its 2013, E. has become most common abundant mite citrus, apparently leading to a reduction presence geographic range other related Competitive relationships were detected between banksi–E. – P. pairs using co-occurrence analysis. Furthermore, generalized linear model analysis showed that probability finding or decreases with increasing density vice versa. Principal component permutational multivariate variance found these two pairs, also orientalis–P. pair. Redundancy variation partitioning revealed how distribution three is not caused environmental conditions, but it strongly influenced their colonization history competitive relationships, since areas highest species are place first detection, do coincide geographically. Finally, mechanisms may be involved displacement possible future scenarios discussed.