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Experiment was laid out in RBD design with seven treatments comprised of pruning of affected twigs (July & October) and miticides (chlorfenapyr & spiromesifen) sprayed twice in July and once in October months to evaluate the efficacy of various integrated approaches. Results revealed that initial mite infestation ranged from 31.9 to 45.9%. During 2017-18, no mite infestation was recorded from October to fruiting stage in pruning and removal of affected twigs followed by two spraying of chlorfenapyr 10 EC (0.03%) or spiromesifen 22.9 SC (0.034%) at 15 days interval during July and again pruning in October with one spraying of chlorfenapyr or spiromesifen against 89.0% in control at fruiting stage, followed by no pruning in October along with spraying of chlorfenapyr with 7.6% mite infestation at flowering stage. Similar trend in 2018-19 confirmed that pruning in July and October followed spraying of miticides (chlorfenapyr or spiromesifen) twice in July and once in October were highly effective against litchi mite. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective To compare a commercial pest control program vs a biological pest control program in cucumber (Cucumis sativus var. Jawell) cultivation, evaluating quality and production standards. Design/methodology/approach The study was carried out in high-tech glass greenhouses, under a cooling system with damp walls and extractors, heating by irradiation, and automated irrigation. Two treatments were evaluated biological pest control in area A and a commercial control program in area B, both in Persian cucumber (Cucumis sativus) of the Jawell variety; each area of 160 m², separately, and 41,600 plants for each area. For biological control, the mite (Amblyseius swirskii) was released for the control of thrips; the wasp (Aphidius colemani) was released for aphid control; the mites (Phytoseiulus persimilis) and (Amblyseius californicus) for red spider control and application of the entomopathogenic nematode (Steinernema fetiae). The chemical control was in accordance with COFEPRIS (2019). The variables were fruit quality total production and incidence of pests in a completely randomized experimental design, and the t-student statistical test and Mann-Whitney test were done for the variables weight quality and loss (P≥0.05). A correlation was made between the incidence of thrips (Thrips tabaci) and the incidence of biological control. Results The biological control method was just as efficient as the chemical control method, in variables such as fruit weight, number of boxes obtained of quality cucumber, and incidence of pests and their biological control. Study limitations/implications It is important to perform more studies under field conditions where biotic and abiotic factors are different and in other regions, in addition to testing other registered biological products. Findings/conclusions Biological and chemical control are complementary, an integrated control would help to slowly adapt a company for a subsequent application of biological control, easing regularization and certification procedures that involve the use of chemicals. A more continuous release of A. swirskii is proposed and distributed during the cultivation weeks. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: Background: The correct treatment and management of scabies is expensive and time‐consuming, and may have a negative impact on patients and their families. Aim: To investigate the effects of permethrin 5% cream on scabies mites, and explore mite survival times outside the human body. Methods: We performed a nonrandomized controlled study. In total, 20 petri dishes were coated with permethrin 5% cream (treatment group) and 20 plain petri dishes (control group) each had one scabies mite placed in them, and were then observed at baseline and 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8 and 12 h from baseline. In the second part of our study, 30 scabies mites from infested patients were investigated in an observational experiment in 30 plain petri dishes at days 0, 3 and 4. Results: Our data showed that 65% of scabies mites survived after 8 h in the treatment group compared with 75% of mites in the control group. After 12 h, 25% of mites in the treatment group and 60% in the control group were still alive. Data from the observational survival study showed that one mite was alive on day 3, but all mites were dead by day 4. Conclusions: This study showed no significant effects of mite survival times with 5% topical permethrin after 8 h, while its efficacy was stronger and significant after 12 h. We recommend the isolation of all mite‐infested items for at least 4 days. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The parasitic mite, Varroa destructor , has shaken the beekeeping and pollination industries since its spread from its native host, the Asian honey bee (Apis cerana), to the naïve European honey bee (Apis mellifera) used commercially for pollination and honey production around the globe. Varroa is the greatest threat to honey bee health. Worrying observations include increasing acaricide resistance in the varroa population and sinking economic treatment thresholds, suggesting that the mites or their vectored viruses are becoming more virulent. Highly infested weak colonies facilitate mite dispersal and disease transmission to stronger and healthier colonies. Here, we review recent developments in the biology, pathology, and management of varroa, and integrate older knowledge that is less well known. Varroa destructor is an underestimated parasite: it is genetically labile, with multiple hybridization and dispersal events. Varroa is also a highly efficient vector of honey bee viruses and drives changes in virus distribution, prevalence, and virulence. Despite this, some Apis mellifera populations can survive without human intervention on all continents where varroa has dispersed. Scientists and specialist breeders are advancing marker-assisted selection techniques to enrich naturally occurring varroa-resistance traits in commercial stock – an approach predicted to be most effective when combined with culling susceptible colonies. Culling is identified as an effective means of removing both undesirable genetics and varroa-related virulence. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Olive is a blessed and therapeutic fruit cultivated all around the globe in relatively temperate and dry regions. Keeping in view the quality and yield of the crop, use of pesticides is indispensable. Traditional pesticides used against crop enemies are effective but unsafe to environment, humans and predators. Olive fields of Saudi Arabia are the biggest in the world and facing infestation due to rapidly increasing number of diverse mite species. Recently, four mite species, Tegelophus hassani, Aceria olive, Oxycenus niloticus and Tetranychus urticae found to be causing severe damage to the plants, have been identified in the olive fields of Saudi Arabia. Huwa-San TR50 is a well-known water disinfectant and considered to be safe as its adverse effects on plants have not been reported as yet. The present study has been conducted to evaluate the use of Huwa-San TR50 as an acricide against four olive mites and two of their predators under laboratory and field conditions. Five different concentrations of Huwa-San TR50; 1000, 2000, 3000, 4000 and 5000 ppm were used based on previous studies to observe mortality of the selected phytophagous mites namely T. hassani, A. olive, O. niloticus and T. urticae. Gradual increase in mortality was observed when mites were treated with Huwa-San TR50 in the concentration range of 1000 - 5000 ppm. Optimum concentration of Huwa-San TR50 to be used against the mites was found to be 4000 ppm as there was negligible increase in mortality beyond this concentration. T. urticae was relatively resistant to Huwa-San TR50 with mortality of 76.58% at optimal concentration. Huwa-San TR50 has effectively impacted egg hatching especially in case of O. niloticus, where successful hatching was only 20%. Eggs of T. urticae are relatively resistant showing 57.97% hatching. The same trend and similar results of mortality and egg hatching were obtained under laboratory and field trials. As an essential part of this research, effect of Huwa-San TR50 was also observed on two predatory mites namely; Phytoseius plumifer and Agistemus exertus and it was found to be relatively safe to predatory mites showing mortality of 30 to 34% at optimum concentration. Again there was insignificant difference in mortality and egg hatching under field and laboratory conditions. Huwa-San TR50 being ecofriendly, safe to predatory mites and an effective acaricide against olive mites and their eggs is recommended for its commercial use in olive orchards. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The objective of the present study was to determine the mite fauna associated with Myrtaceae from Cariri, a microregion with peculiar climatic conditions in the center of the Caatinga Domain in northeastern Brazil. Samples were collected in eight municipalities in Cariri region. In each municipality, five collection sites equidistant at approximately 10 km were established. The sampling was carried out in two periods, rainy season (March to April 2013) and dry season (September to October 2013). A total of 3.831 mites distributed in 14 families, 39 genera and 46 species were recorded. The Phytoseiidae was the dominant predatory mite family with 11 species. The most common phytoseiid species was Euseius concordis (Chant), followed by Euseius citrifolius Demark & Muma and Euseius alatus De Leon. Among the phytophagous mites, two families were the most abundant: Tenuipalpidae and Tetranychidae. Our results indicated that Myrtaceae in Caatinga Domains hosts a considerable diversity of potentially important predatory mites for the control of phytophagous species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Apiculture in the Pacific island country of Papua New Guinea (PNG) is under significant pressure from emerging parasitic mites, Varroa jacobsoni and Tropilaelaps mercedesae. Although numerous mite control products exist, beekeepers in PNG have limited resources and access to these products and their effectiveness under local conditions is untested. Here we determined the effectiveness of two brood manipulation strategies—queen caging and queen removal—for managing V. jacobsoni and T. mercedesae in comparison to the chemical miticide Bayvarol®. Our results found Bayvarol was the most effective control strategy for V. jacobsoni, maintaining high efficacy (> 90%) over 4 months with significantly reduced levels of V. jacobsoni compared to untreated control hives. In contrast, T. mercedesae were significantly reduced by the brood manipulation strategies over 2 months, but not significantly by Bayvarol compared to the controls. These results highlight that a combination of strategies is likely needed to effectively manage both mite pests in PNG. We discuss how these findings are relevant to informing best practice for honey bee biosecurity and how these strategies can be implemented to improve the effectiveness of mite management for PNG beekeepers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A novel system for spider mite control was developed with a slow-release sachet containing Neoseiulus californicus (McGregor) (Acari: Phytoseiidae) protected by a waterproof shelter. Monitoring the efficacy of the predator release system for spider mite control at a Japanese pear greenhouse requires discrimination of N. californicus from other indigenous phytoseiid mite species inhabiting the study site and subsequent identification of the released N. californicus. The report of our earlier study described a PCR-based method for discrimination of N. californicus species. For the present study, we first examined phytoseiid mite species composition in the greenhouse. Subsequently, we developed microsatellite markers to identify the released N. californicus. Finally, we installed the predator release system in the greenhouse and conducted a population survey of phytoseiid and spider mites. Results demonstrated that approximately 1 month is necessary for distribution of the released N. californicus on the leaves. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Evidence regarding the clinical effectiveness of mite allergen avoidance for the treatment of asthma is lacking. In previous meta‐analyses on mite allergen control, the baseline data were not discussed in detail. This study updates and extends the existing Cochrane review by Gøtzsche and Johansen (Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, 2008, Art. No: CD001187), with a focus on baseline asthma outcomes and allergen exposures. Methods: We used the existing trials in the original Cochrane review and included newly published studies. The baseline data for the mite allergen load from the mattress, the standardized asthma symptom score (ASS), the forced expiratory volume in 1 s percentage of predicted (FEV1 %pred.), and the histamine provocative concentration causing a 20% drop in FEV1 (PC20) were extracted. First, the mean values of the outcomes were calculated. The influence of the mite allergen load was examined with a random‐effect meta‐regression using the Metafor package in R. Results: Forty‐five trials were included; 39 trials reported strategies for concurrent bedroom interventions, and 6 trails reported strategies for air purification. The mite allergen load ranged from 0.44 to 24.83 μg/g dust, with a mean of 9.86 μg/g dust (95% CI 5.66 to 14.05 μg/g dust, I2 = 99.8%). All health outcomes showed considerable heterogeneity (standardized ASS mean: 0.13, 95% CI 0.08 to 0.18, I2 = 99.9%; FEV1 %pred. mean: 85.3%, 95% CI 80.5 to 90.1%, I2 = 95.8%; PC20 mean: 1.69 mg/mL, 95% CI 0.86 to 2.52 mg/mL, I2 = 95.6%). The covariate mite allergen load did not significantly influence health outcomes. Discussion: This meta‐analysis shows that mite avoidance studies are characterized by the inclusion of patients with rather mild to moderate asthma and with varying and sometimes negligible levels of allergen exposure. Future studies should focus on patients with severe asthma and increased levels of allergen exposure. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Genipap (Genipa americana L.) is a medicinal tree native to South America and the Amazon regions, where it is used as a popular traditional medicine. It is also highly consumed by people in the form of jams, juices, preserves, and wines. The aim of this study was to evaluate the toxicity, persistence, and the repellence properties of leaf methanolic extracts of genipap (LME) and its major iridoids (genipin and geniposide), against the key coconut pest mite Aceria guerreronis Keifer. The concentration-mortality bioassays revealed a strong acaricidal activity of LME against the coconut mite (LC50 = 0.60 mg.ml-1; and LC90 = 16.69 mg.ml-1). In addition, standard concentrations (0.6 mg.ml-1) of either genipin or geniposide killed 50% and 62% of the A. guerreronis, respectively, after 24 hours of exposure, highlighting the role of these iridoids in the acaricidal activity of LME. The persistence bioassays of LME revealed toxicity towards A. guerreronis for up to 36 hours after spraying. Furthermore, LC50 and LC90 of LME repelled the coconut mite after 1, 24, and 48 hours of exposure. Therefore, LME can be considered an alternative to assist in the integrated control of the coconut mite in coconut plantations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Tetranychus urticae Koch is one of the major pests that cause economic losses in pepper production. In the production of pepper, it is fed on the plant and causes loss of yield and quality in the plant. Within the scope of the integrated pest management, Acari family Phytoseiidae members are generally used for the control of these pests. Phytoseiulus persimilis Athias-Henriot and Neoseiulus californicus (McGregor) (Acari: Phytoseiidae) are most commonly used to control of mites in greenhouses. P. persimilis is most preferred because it is a specific predator and feeds only on Tetranychus species. In this study, the use and efficacy of bifenazate (Bif) and Phytoseiulus persimilis (PP) in the control of Tetranychus urticae on pepper in greenhouse conditions were determined. For this purpose, four-character experiment including Bif, PP, Bif + PP and control was established according to completely randomized design in the greenhouse. Evaluations were performed on the 1st, 3rd, 5th, 7th, 14th, 21st and 28th days after applying Bif and PP to determine mite density. According to the 28th day evaluation in 2017 and 2018, the number of hd (moving stage) / leaves was 0.53 and 0.53 hd / leaf for PP; 3.47 and 3.60 hd / leaf for Bif; 0.13 and 0.67 hd / leaf for Bif+ PP and 6.16 and 6.47 hd / leaf for control respectively. When the applications were evaluated in general, it was determined that the best control of T. urticae during both years was provided by Bif+ PP application. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The essential oils of Anethum graveolens L. and Allium sativum L. were investigated for the biological activities against Tetranychus urticae Koch and Tetranychus truncatus Ehara. The results indicated that A. sativum oil at 20% (v/v) had high contact toxicity (73.50% mortality) on adult females of T. truncatus. The LC50 value was 12.71% for 24 h after treatment. Eggs of both spider mites were also susceptible to 5-20% and 20% concentrations of A. sativum and A. graveolens oil, respectively. Allium sativum oil caused 97-100 and 84% mortality against T. truncatus and T. urticae eggs with LC50 values of 1.62 and 11.58% at 7 d after exposure, respectively. In repellency test, A. graveolens oil at 5-20% concentrations showed a high percentage of repellency on T. truncatus (62-96%) and T. urticae (98-100%) during 1-5 h after treatment. On the other hand, 5-20% and 15-20% concentrations of A. sativum oil appeared high percentage of repellency on T. truncatus (98-100%) and T. urticae (86-100%) during 1-5 h after treatment, respectively. In a fumigant toxicity test, A. sativum and A. graveolens oils were toxic to both spider mites. Allium sativum oil (LC50 = 4.94 µL/L in air) and A. graveolens oil (LC50 = 13.67 µL/L in air) were toxic to adult females of T. urticae whereas T. truncatus adult females were responsible to A. graveolens oil (LC50 = 5.24 µL/L in air) and A. sativum oil (LC50 = 5 µL/L in air). The results suggested that essential oils of A. sativum had potential for ovicidal activity on T. truncatus and T. urticae and acaricidal activity on T. truncatus. Both oils showed repellent activity against both spider mites. Oils of A. sativum and A. graveolens were toxic in fumigant effect on both spider mites. Their biological activities could be useful in promoting of integrated mite management. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The use of pesticides and especially acaricides, to control Varroa mite populations poses risks for consumers of beehive products such as honey. Treatments, such as heating and ultrasound, only partially reduce the acaricide residues. This study aims to investigate the effect of High Hydrostatic Pressure (HHP) on malathion, coumaphos, bromopropylate, tau-fluvalinate, and chlorpyrifos residues in spiked honey samples. Different pressures (150, 400 & 580 MPa), processing time (1, 3, 6 & 12 min), and temperatures (4, 25 & 35οC) were tested. The oxygen present in the packaging was tested for its effect on the efficiency of the treatment. Qualitative and quantitative determination of residues were performed with gas chromatography (GC - μECD). The reduction ascertained was 30.6%, 28.6%, 21%, 15.7%, and 10.6% for malathion, chlorpyrifos, coumaphos, bromopropylate and tau-fluvalinate, respectively. Processing did not significantly affect honey quality, while an enhancement of antioxidative properties was recorded. • The concentration of pesticides in honey can be reduced by pressure treatment. • Oxygen concentration in the package influences HHP treatment efficacy. • Honey quality was not altered by HHP. • An upgrade of the antioxidant profile was recorded after HHP treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• The frequencies of honey bees' entering and leaving hives are studied. • Three foraging flight-based indicators for bee colony health are proposed. • They are verified by colony population changes through mite infection/treatments. • The consistency of daily foraging flight patterns indicates the colony stability. • The indicators can serve as an effective and convenient tool for hive management. Honey bees play an extremely important role in agricultural industries. To prevent bee colonies from collapsing, it is critical to acquire real-time health information regarding bee populations. This study developed foraging flight-based indicators, including the daily incoming and outgoing flight frequencies of forager bees and the consistency of the pattern of daily routine of forager bees, to determine the health status of a honey bee colony. The frequencies of forager bees' entering and leaving their beehive was calculated using the monitoring data obtained from an automatic bee monitoring system. The consistency of the pattern of daily routine of forager bees was represented by the residual rate of outgoing and incoming activities of the bees. A three-week experiment was conducted to investigate the performances of four mite (Varroa jacobsoni Oudemans) treatments after the colonies were infected by the mites, and the performances of the treatments were used to determine the health of the colonies. A variety of indicators, the proposed foraging flight-based indicators included, were adopted to evaluate the performances of the treatments. The autocorrelation and cross-correlation analysis results showed that without invading bee colonies the proposed foraging flight-based indicators were as effective as other indicators in determining the health of honey bee colonies. Thus, the proposed indicators could serve an effective and convenient tool for beekeepers to manage their beehives. Combining with the bee monitoring system capable of automatically collecting data of incoming and outgoing frequencies of forager bees, the health management of bee farms can be greatly improved. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The twospotted spider mite, Tetranychus urticae Koch (Acari: Tetranychidae) is one of the major pests of strawberry in the United States, causing losses of photosynthetic efficiency of up to 30% in strawberries. The predatory mite, Neoseiulus californicus (McGregor) (Acari: Phytoseiidae) is one of the primary biological control agents used against T. urticae in strawberries in Florida. We hypothesized that intercropping sweet alyssum (Lobularia maritima (L.)) would provide pollen as an alternative food source for N. californicus , allowing populations to survive longer when their preferred prey, spider mites, is not available. To test this hypothesis, three treatments including sweet alyssum in combination with N. californicus mites, N. californicus mites (only), and a miticide regimen were evaluated in in a field study. We found that N. californicus mites consistently controlled the spider mite population when populations were high compared to a miticide regimen (control). Furthermore, there was no evidence that the presence of sweet alyssum affected the efficacy or sustainability of N. californicus. The implications of these results are discussed for organic growers who favor banker planting. • A single, early season release of Neoseiulus californicus predatory mites effectively managed Tetranychus urticae populations. • A rotation of Aramite (cinnamon and clove oil) and Cosavet DF (sulfur) did not result in adequate management of T. urticae populations. • The addition of sweet alyssum did not improve the performance of N. californicus. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article discusses efforts to create honey bee colonies that can resist the parasitic mite named Varroa destructor. Topics covered include challenge of combining mite-resistance traits with other honey bee traits valued by apiarists, how the Varroa destructor mites can cause honey bee colonies to collapse, outcome of the decision of some beekeepers to let the hives resist the mite themselves and efforts to breed mite-resistant bees.

Plant-based natural products represent an alternative to chemical compounds for the control of mites in veterinary medicine. Here, the essential oil of Elsholtzia densa (E. densa) Benth was extracted using hydrodistillation at a rate of 1.2%. The chemical composition of the essential oil was determined by gas chromatographymass spectrometry (GC-MS) analysis. The GC-MS analysis indicated that the principal compounds in the volatile oil of the sample were 4-Pyridinol (28.16%) and thymol (26.58%). The acaricidal activity of E. densa oil against Sarcoptes scabiei (S. scabiei) was tested in vitro. Toxicity test data were analysed using a complementary log-log (CLL) model. The E. densa oil was prepared in five concentrations by dilution with liquid paraffin (1, 2, 4, 8 and 16 mg/ml) and exhibited strong toxicity against S. scabiei with LT50 values of 16.637, 5.075, 2.884, 1.184 and 0.760 h, respectively. The LC50 values were 7.678, 4.623, 2.543, 1.502, 1.298 and 0.981 mg/ml for S. scabiei at 1, 2, 4, 8, 16 and 24 h, respectively. Compared to the control, the essential oil showed significant effects against S. scabiei in vitro. At 16 mg/ml, E. densa oil was found to kill all mites within a 16-h period. The results indicate that E. densa oil possesses potential acaricidal activity in vitro and may be exploited as a novel drug for the effective control of S. scabiei. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: Asthma affects three hundred million people worldwide. The effectiveness of house dust mite allergen control for asthma treatment is debatable. One aspect that has been little discussed in existing meta‐analyses is the possible role of environmental strategies. Here, we reintroduce the previously defined strategies for mite allergen control and discuss their importance to the debate on clinical effectiveness. The strategy of concurrent bedroom interventions is related to the combined use of a priori defined interventions, while the strategy of exposure‐based control relates to the treatment of relevant textiles after assessing exposure. The air purification strategy aims to purify the human breathing zone of airborne allergens. In Western European patient practice, the use of these strategies differs. A post hoc study of the dominant Cochrane review by Gøtzsche and Johansen (Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, 2008, Art. No: CD001187) appears to indicate that a majority of the underlying trials reported on the strategy of concurrent bedroom interventions, which were mainly executed in a minimal manner. Some trials have reported on the air purification strategy and may potentially alter the debate on effectiveness. No trial has reported on the strategy of exposure‐based control. We therefore hypothesize that the absence of evidence for the effectiveness of mite allergen control for asthma treatment applies to the strategy of concurrent bedroom interventions. The evidence‐based effectiveness of the exposure‐based control strategy appears to be undetermined. The results of our post hoc reanalysis urge that future meta‐analyses of mite allergen control should a priori define the environmental strategy under study. Future trials of mite allergen control are warranted to test the exposure‐based strategy as well as the sparsely tested strategy of air purification. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Oligonychus ilicis (McGregor) (Acari: Tetranychidae), is one of the most important mite pests found in coffee plants. One way to reduce intensive pest attacks is management via resistant plants. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the resistance of 14 C. canephora genotypes to O. ilicis by antixenosis and antibiosis mechanisms and to determine the preimaginal conditioning effect on resistant genotypes using O. ilicis reared on C. canephora. Resistance by antixenosis was not found; however, nine genotypes showed resistance to O. ilicis via an antibiosis mechanism. Two of these resistant genotypes showed a more persistent resistance than the O. ilicis reared on C. canephora, which indicated that a previous host can affect the selection of a genotype by O. ilicis. The study may provide a model to evaluate the preimaginal conditioning effect on plant resistance, which can be useful for plant breeders. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The adverse effects of synthetic acaricides on humans, animals, non-target organisms and the ecosystem are serious problems. Thus, there is a new trend to use nanotechnology for developing new, natural, bio and safe acaricides for mite control in green-pest management. This is the first work for preparing a nanoformulation of rosemary essential oil (EO) and evaluating its effect against the two-spotted spider mite Tetranychus urticae Koch. GC/MS analysis of rosemary EO showed that 1,8 cineole (31.45%), borneol (11.07%), α-pinene (10.91%), D-limonene (9.19%), L-linalool (8.86%), D-camphor (7.32%), γ-terpinene (3.92%), linalyl acetate (3.37%), α-terpineol (3.32%), and p-cymene (1.82%) were the major components. After 6 min of sonication, a nanoemulsion of rosemary EO was formulated with a droplet size of 139.9 nm. The balance between oil (lyophilic) and surfactant (hydrophilic) was correlated with the droplet size and the stability of the nanoemulsion. Spray application of rosemary nanoemulsion showed high acaricidal activity against immature and adult two-spotted spider mites T. urticae with LC50 723.71 and 865.68 μg · ml-1 and the toxicity increased by 54.15 and 52.69% for immature and adult mites, respectively. There were no toxic effects or mortality of rats treated with rosemary nanoemulsion. High acaricidal activity, stability, and safety of rosemary nanoemulsion make this nanoformulation a possible green and nano-acaricidal product. Further studies under field conditions are necessary to study the acaricidal efficiency of rosemary nanoemulsion against two-spotted spider mites and the toxic effect on predacious mites. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Frankliniella occidentalis (Pergande) is an economically important pest worldwide and has demonstrated a particularly difficult to manage. Controlling soil-pupating thrips is a promising strategy for controlling F. occidentalis. Beauveria bassiana granules and soil inhabiting predatory mite Stratiolaelaps scimitus have been proposed as alternative control agents. This study evaluated the effect of the B. bassiana conidia on the survival, immature development, longevity, reproduction of S. scimitus by laboratory bioassays. The effect of B. bassianaused as granules on survival of S. scimitus was also assessed under potted condition. When B. bassiana was sprayed directly on each immature stage of S. scimitus at a concentration of 1×107 ml-1 conidia, their survival rates and developmental times were not affected. Direct spray of B. bassiana on female S. scimitus did not affect their reproduction and longevity. The potted test showed that B. bassiana used as granules has no impact on the density of S. scimitus. Our study suggested that using B. bassiana granules is compatible with release of S. scimitus in soil, and their combined use may be an alternative to traditional F. occidentalis management. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mulching of soil beds of strawberry fields is usually done with polyethylene film in southern Minas Gerais state, Brazil. This material is relatively expensive and difficult to discard after use. In some countries, mulching is done with the use of organic material that could have an advantage over the use of plastic for its easier degradation after use, and for favoring edaphic beneficial organisms. Predatory mites (especially Gamasina, Mesostigmata) may be abundant in the soil and could conceivably move to the soil surface and onto the short-growing strawberry plants at night, helping in the control or pest arthropods. The two-spotted spider mite, Tetranychus urticae Koch, is considered an important strawberry pest in that region, where the fungus Neozygites floridana (Weiser and Muma) has been found to infect it. Different mulching types could affect the incidence of this pathogen. Dehydrated coffee husk and pulp (DCHP) is a byproduct readily available in southern Minas Gerais, where could be used as organic mulching in strawberry beds. The temporary contact of that material with the soil of a patch of natural vegetation could facilitate its colonization by edaphic predatory mites helpful in the control of strawberry pests. The objective of this work was to study the effect of mulching type on the population dynamics of the two-spotted spider mite, associate mites and N. floridana, in a greenhouse and in the field. The use of DCHP increased the number of edaphic Gamasina on strawberry plants—Proctolaelaps pygmaeus (Müller) (Melicharidae) and Blattisocius dentriticus (Berlese) (Blattisociidae) were observed on strawberry leaflets, mainly in nocturnal samplings, indicating their possible daily migration from soil to plants. Lower levels of two-spotted spider mite occurred on plants from pots or soil beds mulched with DCHP instead of polyethylene film, possibly because of the slightly higher levels of mites of the family Phytoseiidae and infection by N. floridana. Adding DCHP onto the floor of natural vegetation did not result in higher diversity or levels of gamasine mites on DCHP. Complementary studies should be conducted to find ways to increase diversity and density of those organisms in strawberry beds, in an attempt to improve biological control of strawberry pests. The decision to use DCHP for mulching should also take into account other factors such as strawberry yield, costs and efficiency of weed management, to be evaluated in subsequent studies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Copyright of Archives of Veterinary Medicine / Arhiv Veterinarske Medicine is the property of Scientific Veterinary Institute Novi Sad and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

The removal of Varroa destructor was assessed in Russian honey bee (RHB) colonies with known levels of Varroa Sensitive Hygienic (VSH) and brood removal activities. The expression of grooming behaviour using individual bees was also measured using three groups of RHB displaying different VSH levels: low hygiene (RHB-LH, < 35% VSH), medium hygiene (RHB-MH, 35-70%) and high hygiene (RHB-HH, > 70%). Italian colonies (5.43-71.62% VSH) served as control. Our results demonstrated, for the first time, significant relationships between two hygienic responses (VSH activity measured as percent change in infestation and the actual brood removal of Varroa-infested donor comb) and two measurements of mite fall (trapped old mites/trapped mites or O/T and trapped young mites/trapped mites or Y/T). However, these relationships were only observed in RHB colonies. In addition, the RHB colonies that displayed the highest levels of hygiene (RHB-HH) also groomed longer in response to the presence of a V. destructor mite based on individual bee assays. The positive regressions between the two hygienic measurements and O/T and their negative regressions with Y/T suggest that the removal of infested brood prevented successful mite reproduction, ultimately suppressing V. destructor infestations in the RHB colonies. In addition, it is demonstrated that RHB resistance to V. destructor rests on both an increased hygienic response and the removal of phoretic mites, released by hygienic behaviour, through grooming. Both resistance traits are reflected in the O/T and Y/T ratios found in trapped mites from RHB colonies. None of the measurements involving mite injuries were associated with any measurements of hygiene and colony infestations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Journal of Agricultural and Environmental Research (RIAA) thanks researchers for their support and announces that it continues with its policy of open and free access. In this volume, articles related to different crops, invasive species in agricultural areas, mite control, sheep, the red crab, milk quality in crossbred cows, environmental sustainability of fishing, environmental impact of hydroelectric power plants, and life cycle of oils and agro-industrial products are presented. The journal hopes that these articles contribute to knowledge in the different areas included in the journal. [Extracted from the article]

Eight treatments of edible coatings and nets including liquid smoke (SP and 24P) and xanthan gum (XG) were used to evaluate their effectiveness at controlling mite growth on dry-cured hams. Mite growth was controlled (P < 0.05) in both coating and netting treatments of 1% SP + 1% XG. Increasing SP concentration from 1% to 2% in the SP only treatments without XG did not control mite growth (P > 0.05) in the coating but controlled mite growth (P < 0.05) when infused in the nets. Both coating and netting treatments with 2% 24P + 1% XG controlled mite growth (P < 0.05), and ham cubes with 1% and 2% 24P in infused nets had mite numbers of 4.6 and 9.4, respectively. SP did not impact the sensory attributes of the ham. Results indicate that liquid smoke can potentially be added in coatings or ham nets to control mites and used in an integrated pest management program for dry-cured hams. • Use of 1% SP liquid smoke with xanthan gum controlled mite growth. • Infusing 1% and 2% Select 24P liquid smoke into nets controlled mite growth. • Liquid smoke did not impact the sensory qualities of country ham as edible coatings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mite infestation of reptiles is a common problem that can be quite burdensome to treat. Mites leave the host and reproduce in bedding, caging, and housing of the reptiles, making environmental treatment as important as animal treatment. In a small study, Bravecto® (Fluralaner, Merck Animal Health, Madison, NJ, USA), used at a dose used in dogs and cats, was effective in controlling external parasites in a group of ball pythons (Python regius) without extensive environmental cleaning. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The northern fowl mite, Ornithonyssus sylviarum (Canestrini & Fanzago, 1877), is found on several continents and has been a major pest of poultry in the United States for nearly a century. Lack of earlier USA reports in the United States suggests an introduction or change to pest status in domestic poultry systems occurred in the early 1900s. Though predominantly a nest-parasite of wild birds, this obligate hematophagous mite is a permanent ectoparasite on domestic birds, especially egg-laying chickens. Economic damage is incurred by direct blood feeding and activation of the of host’s immune responses. This in turn causes decreased egg production and feed conversion efficiency, and severe infestations can cause anemia or death to birds. Here we review the biology, ecology, and recent control measures for the northern fowl mite. Photomicrographs are included of adult males and females, protonymphs, and larvae with key characters indicated. Special emphasis is placed on current knowledge gaps of basic and applied science importance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

At least two parasitic mites have moved from Asian species of honeybees to infest Apis mellifera. Of these two, Varroa destructor is more widespread globally while Tropilaelaps mercedesae has remained largely in Asia. Tropilaelaps mites are most problematic when A. mellifera is managed outside its native range in contact with Asian species of Apis. In areas where this occurs, beekeepers of A. mellifera treat aggressively for Tropilaelaps and Varroa is either outcompeted or is controlled as a result of the aggressive treatment regime used against Tropilaelaps. Many mite control products used worldwide may in fact control both mites but environmental conditions differ globally and thus a control product that works well in one area may be less or ineffective in other areas. This is especially true of volatile compounds. In the current research we tested several commercial products known to control Varroa and powdered sulfur for efficacy against Tropilaelaps. Additionally, we tested the cultural control method of making a hive division to reduce Tropilaelaps growth in both the parent and offspring colony. Making a split or nucleus colony significantly reduced mite population in both the parent and nucleus colony when compared to un-manipulated control colonies. The formic acid product, Mite-Away Quick Strips®, was the only commercial product that significantly reduced mite population 8 weeks after initiation of treatment without side effects. Sulfur also reduced mite populations but both sulfur and Hopguard® significantly impacted colony growth by reducing adult bee populations. Apivar® (amitraz) strips had no effect on mite or adult bee populations under the conditions tested. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The health and survival of managed honey bee ( Apis mellifera ) colonies are affected by multiple factors, one of the most important being the interaction between viral pathogens and infestations of the ectoparasitic mite Varroa destructor . Currently, the only effective strategy available for mitigating the impact of viral infections is the chemical control of mite populations. Unfortunately, the use of in-hive acaricides comes at a price, as they can produce sublethal effects that are difficult to quantify, but may ultimately be as damaging as the mites they are used to treat. The goal of this study was to investigate the physiological and immunological effects of the formamidine acaricide amitraz and its primary metabolite in honey bees. Using flock house virus as a model for viral infection, this study found that exposure to a formamidine acaricide may have a negative impact on the ability of honey bees to tolerate viral infection. Furthermore, this work has demonstrated that amitraz and its metabolite significantly alter honey bee cardiac function, most likely through interaction with octopamine receptors. The results suggest a potential drawback to the in-hive use of amitraz and raise intriguing questions about the relationship between insect cardiac function and disease tolerance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Improving natural pest control by promoting high densities of predatory mites (Acari: Phytoseiidae) is an effective way to prevent damage by pest mites (e.g., Eriophyidae, Tetranychidae) and other arthropod taxa that can cause serious damage to vineyards. Here, we investigate the influence of innovative management on predatory mite densities. We compare (i) full versus reduced fungicide applications and (ii)minimal pruning versus a traditional trellis pruning systemin four fungus-resistant grapevine varieties. As predatory mites also feed on fungus mycelium, we assessed fungal infection of grapevine leaves in the experimental vineyard. Predatory mites were significantly more abundant in both minimal pruning and under reduced plant protection. Increases in predatory mites appeared to be independent of fungal infection, suggesting mostly direct effects of reduced fungicides and minimal pruning. In contrast to predatory mites, pest mites did not increase under innovative management. Thus, conditions for natural pest control are improved in fungus-resistant grapevines and underminimal pruning, which adds to other advantages such as environmental safety and reduced production cost. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Oxalic acid dihydrate is used to treat varroosis of Apis mellifera. This study investigates lethal and sublethal effects of oxalic acid dihydrate on individually treated honeybees kept in cages under laboratory conditions as well as the distribution in the colony. After oral application, bee mortality occurred at relatively low concentrations (No Observed Adverse Effect Level (NOAEL) 50 μg/bee; Lowest Observed Adverse Effect Level (LOAEL) 75 μg/bee) compared to the dermal treatment (NOAEL 212.5 μg/bee; LOAEL 250 μg/bee). The dosage used in regular treatment via dermal application (circa 175 μg/bee) is below the LOAEL, referring to mortality derived in the laboratory. However, the treatment with oxalic acid dihydrate caused sublethal effects: This could be demonstrated in an increased responsiveness to water, decreased longevity and a reduction in pH-values in the digestive system and the hemolymph. The shift towards stronger acidity after treatment confirms that damage to the epithelial tissue and organs is likely to be caused by hyperacidity. The distribution of oxalic acid dihydrate within a colony was shown by macro-computed tomography; it was rapid and consistent. The increased density of the individual bee was continuous for at least 14 days after the treatment indicating the presence of oxalic acid dihydrate in the hive even long after a treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The poultry red mite, Dermanyssus gallinae, represents a key threat for the poultry industry worldwide. The control of D. gallinae is mainly achieved by continuous applications of acaricides. However, the fast-growing development of resistance, and the strict laws concerning chemicals admitted for treatments on food animals, highlighted the importance of alternative control tools. Here, we explored the potential of Artemisia sieberi essential oil against D. gallinae. In this study, the A. sieberi essential oil was analyzed using GC and GC-MS. The oil toxicity through contact and fumigant assays on adult mites was evaluated. The oil repellent activity was assessed on adult mites over different time intervals. Lastly, the residual toxicity of various doses of the oil was evaluated on D. gallinae until 14 days post treatment. GC and GC-MS showed that the oil was rich in α-thujone (31.5%), β-thujone (11.92%), camphor (12.3%), and 1,8-cineole (10.09%). Contact toxicity on adult mites showed 50% lethal concentration (LC), LC, and LC of 15.85, 26.63, and 35.42 μg/cm, respectively. In fumigant assays, the oil was toxic on D. gallinae, and mortality was significantly higher in open containers over closed ones, underlining the key role of highly volatile constituents. Repellent assays showed that after 24 h from the treatment, all doses of the A. sieberi essential oil led to significant repellent activity over the control, except for 2 μg/cm. After 48 h, A. sieberi essential oil tested at all doses led to significant repellent activity, if compared to the control. Residual toxicity assays showed that time exposure and concentration tested had a significant impact on mite mortality after 1, 2, 5, and 7 days from the treatment. Notably, mortality remained significantly higher over the control for 7 days after spraying with oil at 2%. Further field assays with selected molecules from the A. sieberi essential oil are ongoing, testing them in synergistic blends, as well as in microencapsulated formulations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, the acaricidal activities of Rhododendron nivale Hook. f. and its main compound, δ-cadinene were investigated, and the chemical composition of the essential oil was analyzed. The results showed that among aqueous, 70% ethanols, acetic ether, chloroform, petroleum ether and essential oil extracts from the shoots and leaves, the essential oil showed the best in vitro acaricidal activity against adult P. cuniculi , which occurred in a concentration- and time-dependent manner. The median lethal time (LT 50 ) values of four concentrations (33.33–4.17 mg/ml) of the essential oil ranged from 1.476 to 25.900 h, respectively. After the treatment of P. cuniculi with the essential oil and ivermectin, infected rabbits were free of scabs or secretions in the ear canal by day 20. Then, the percent yield of essential oil from the leaves and shoots was 2.45% (w/w), which includes 50 compounds. The primary component identified was terpenes, and among of compounds identified from the essential oil of R. nivale the highest relative content was δ-cadinene, which also presented the marked acaricidal activity against Psoroptes cuniculi in vitro. These findings provide evidence for the use of acaricides as a traditional medicine and indicate that the essential oil and δ-cadinene could be used to control mites in livestock. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Various treatments are currently available for the control of Var roa mites. Some of these treatments depend on using natural and nonchemical compounds. In this study, the impacts of some materials (oxalic acid, thymol, and potassium citrate) on the survival of honey bees and some quality parameters were investigated under laboratory conditions. The potential impacts of different feeding types (sugar syrup, sugar candy, honey candy, honey jelly, and creamed honey) mixed with the tested Var roa control materials on honey bees were also studied. The study showed that using high percentages of oxalic, thymol, or potassium citrate can passively impact honey bees while using 0.5% is more preferable. The study also proved that feeding type, either as a liquid or solid, except for honey jelly, has no undesirable impacts on the survival or studied parameters of honey bee workers and drones. Drones fed on potassium regardless of feeding type were able to survive significantly at day 4 more so than drones fed on oxalic acid or thymol. Investigations into the role of potassium in enhancing the survival of bee drones and in controlling Varroa mites are recommended. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Diagnosis and immunotherapy of allergy against mites is based on complex extracts from large-scale cultures. However, the analysis of their composition using specific antibodies is limited. By taking advantage of the prevailing enzymatic nature of mite allergens, we have developed a broad-spectrum biochemical method for the standardization of native mite products. Methods Microplate-based assays have been implemented for thirteen Dermatophagoides pteronyssinus enzymatic activities, associated with Der p 1, 3, 4, 6, 8, 9, 15 and 20 allergens. The dynamics of these activities along culture growth, and their profile in purified fractions (bodies and faeces) and international reference standards ( WHO/ IUIS, two CBER/ FDA), have been characterized. The stability of enzymatic activities and major allergens under stress conditions (40°C) has been assessed in the presence/absence of specific protease inhibitors. Results The analysis of enzymatic activities revealed distinct profiles along culture growth and between fractions (bodies and faeces). Remarkable differences were found when comparing international reference standards, being consistent with their source material (purified bodies or whole cultures). After 72 h at 40°C, only trypsin and alpha-amylase maintained high activity. Notably, the prominent role of trypsins in the hydrolytic degradation of major allergens is demonstrated by the use of inhibitors. Conclusions Our method offers a robust approach to assess the complexity of mite extracts and highlights the critical importance of source materials for the composition and stability of finished products. The implementation of this approach in industry-based quality control procedures would contribute to the standardization of allergenic extracts used for diagnosis and immunotherapy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Since Varroa mites may cause devastating losses of honey bees through direct feeding, transmitting diseases, and increasing pathogen susceptibility, chemical and mechanical practices commonly are used to reduce mite infestation. While miticide applications are typically the most consistent and efficacious Varroa mite management method, miticide-induced insecticide synergism in honey bees, and the evolution of resistance in Varroa mites are reasonable concerns. We treated colonies with the miticide amitraz (Apivar®), used IPM practices, or left some colonies untreated, and then measured the effect of different levels of mite infestations on the sensitivity of bees to phenothrin, amitraz, and clothianidin. Sensitivity to all insecticides varied throughout the year among and within treatment groups. Clothianidin sensitivity decreased with increasing mite levels, but no such correlation was seen with phenothrin or amitraz. These results show that insecticide sensitivity is dynamic throughout the 5 months test. In-hive amitraz treatment according to the labeled use did not synergize sensitivity to the pesticides tested and this should alleviate concern over potential synergistic effects. Since IPM practices were largely ineffective at reducing Varroa mite infestation, reliance on chemical methods of Varroa mite management is likely to continue. However, miticides must be used judiciously so the long term effectiveness of these compounds can be maximized. These data demonstrate the complex and dynamic variables that contribute to honey bee colony health. The results underscore the importance of controlling for as many of these variables as possible in order to accurately determine the effects of each of these factors as they act alone or in concert with others. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Dry-cured ham is protected from arthropod infestations using the fumigant methyl bromide. Tyrophagus putrescentiae (Schrank), known as the cheese or ham mite, decreases the quality and quantity of dry-cured hams during the aging process and is a serious economic threat to dry-cured ham companies. Methyl bromide is a strong ozone-depleting substance that is scheduled to be phased out from most uses in the near future. Consequently, developing effective, feasible, and economic alternatives to methyl bromide is the main purpose of the current project. More than ten registered residual pesticides were assessed for toxicity with glass vials treated with different concentrations. Twenty mites were transferred to each vial for 24 h of exposure on contact. Persistence of three of these residual pesticides was evaluated over a 2-month period by applying the recommended label rates to different surfaces. Results indicated that the commercial products of deltamethrin plus chlorpyrifos-methyl, chlorphenapyr, and malathion showed promising results for contact toxicity against mites, and chlorphenapyr was highly effective at very low concentrations. Chlorphenapyr was the only pesticide applied to metal, concrete, and wood that was effective at controlling ham mites for 8 weeks. These pesticides are currently registered for use in similar contexts, so they could be considered as new potential control measures for ham mites in ham plants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The control of hidden pest species with pesticides depends on the accurate timing of the application to reach the life stages during their only moment of vulnerability, which is when the pests (temporarily) leave their hiding places. A curious case involves the colonization of the coconut perianth, a bract-protected region of the fruit, by the coconut mite Aceria guerreronis. The coconut bracts apparently provide protection against the direct action of acaricides used against the coconut mite. Furthermore, some acaricides target mite eggs and/or immatures in addition to adults, leading to enhanced mortality and/or compromised progeny production, but only if reaching these stages. In this study, we developed methods for assessing the likely protection provided by the coconut bract against the acaricides used for managing the coconut mite. We also assessed the efficacy of the acaricides currently registered for use against this species. Our results support the notion that coconut bracts provide protection to the coconut mite against direct acaricide action. Some acaricides (abamectin and fenpyroximate) were effective only with the removal of the coconut bracts, whereas others (hexythiazox and spirodiclofen) were not effective even with bract removal. Coconut mites sheltered by bracts were protected against the acaricides over time, but the acaricides seemed to induce mite dispersion. In addition, the preventive application of some acaricides reduced the chances of the perianth colonization by the coconut mite. Among the acaricides used, two (hexythiazox and spirodiclofen) are registered as ovicides, but only one (spirodiclofen) acted on eggs, preventing hatching of approximately 40 % of the eggs. The acaricide impacts on coconut mite management are discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Honey bees and their ectoparasite Varroa destructor communicate through chemical signals among themselves, but they also eavesdrop on each other's chemical cues. We summarize semiochemicals of honey bees and Varroa, and their roles in honey bee- Varroa interactions. We also give an overview of current Varroa control methods, which can be classified into three categories: (1) chemical control methods with acaricides, (2) biotechnical intervention, and (3) bee breeding programs. Widely used synthetic chemical acaricides are failing due to the emergence of resistant mites. Therefore, new methods are being sought for Varroa control, and methods that target the semiochemical interactions between bees and mites are among the candidates. We review our discovery of compounds that alter the host choice of Varroa mites (from nurse to forager) in laboratory tests. Any semiochemical-based methods are still in the experimental stage and need validation in the field. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]