Amblydromalus limonicus: a gamechanger in biological control

Abstract: Amblydromalus limonicus became commercially available in 2012 and its biology
and use as a biocontrol agent were comprehensively reviewed shortly thereafter. In recent years, product performance and application options have expanded, including availability in sachets. We evaluated sachet introductions across multiple crops (e. g., cucumber, sweet pepper, strawberry) under different production systems and variable climate conditions. Across studies, the polyphagous feeding behavior of A. limonicus supported establishment on key prey such as thrips and whiteflies, enabling population build-up under practical greenhouse conditions. A consistent outcome across crop systems was suppression of western flower thrips, Frankliniella occidentalis. In addition, A. limonicus was assessed against invasive thrips, including Thrips parvispinus. Research in Spain demonstrated strong predation potential and practical relevance of A. limonicus for this pest. Finally, comparative work across environmental conditions indicates high plasticity of A. limonicus, with robust oviposition and predation relative to other commonly used predatory mites. We present an overview of these experiments and associated research to discuss where A. limonicus fits best in IPM programs, and why it has become a particularly versatile predatory mite for thrips and whitefly management.