Plant feeding phytoseiids and implications for their implementation in IPM

Abstract: Generalist phytoseiid mites are strongly associated with their plant hosts and rely on the latter for shelter against predators, suitable climatic conditions for oviposition sites, plant based foods and an assortment of prey. Additionally species from numerous genera feed directly from the plant. Recently generalist phytoseiids, amongst them plant feeders, have been introduced as control agents in the greenhouse industry, coupled with the provision of alternate foods. In this short review I present some examples of plant feeders and discuss the implications of utilizing these predators as biocontrol agents in cropping systems.