Observation and restriction of Aculops lycopersici dispersal in tomato layer cultivation

• DOI: 10.1007/s41348-023-00817-6
• Publication Date: 2023-10-26T14:02:48Z
• Authors: Alexander Pfaff; Doreen Gabriel; Elias Böckmann
• Keywords: 2. Zero hunger; 0106 biological sciences; 01 natural sciences

Abstract The tomato russet mite Aculops lycopersici has become a challenging pest in production the EU. number of available acaricides is low, and efficacy biological control limited. With this study, we aim to understand better unhindered dispersal dynamics develop method reduce on plants. To A. layered cultivation under practical conditions, first trial was carried out. confirmed that symptoms usually occur lower or middle third plants then move upwards It observed plants, for limited period time often are able grow new healthy leaves same pace as existing leaves, mostly part plant damaged by . This possible due fast growth rate hybrid varieties layer cultivation. test if effect can be supported further slowing down movement pest, second conducted. Here, stems inoculated were blocked weekly applying ring insect glue 15 cm below tip stem blockage severely impaired only active mode : walking. material, when applied, exceed speed with which destroys material resulted significantly less damage prevented fruit all treated approach manipulating thereby restricting could potentially exploited protection purposes conditions.