Entomopathogenic nematodes as natural enemies for control of Rhizoglyphus robini Claparede (Acari: Astigmata)

Abstract: Bulb mites of the genus Rhizoglyphus are among the most serious pests of onion and garlic. Additionally they can attack ornamentals such as lilies, tulips and hyacinths. Females of these soil dwelling mites lay their eggs on the underground parts of many plants and their mmature and adult stages cause damage to plant tissues that are, consequently, more sensitive to bacterial and fungal pathogens. Some of these pathogens (e. g. Fusarium sp.) are then transmitted by these mites to other healthy plants. As the females of Rhizoglyphus echinopus and R. robini have relatively large bodies and live in the soil environment, entomopathogenic nematodes, especially the small species, could invade them and affect their survival having significant impact on their population.