Population dynamics of the thrips predators Amblyseius mckenziei and Amblyseius cucumeris (Acarina: Phytoseiidae) on sweet pepper

Abstract

On sweet peppers Capsicum annuum, the thrips predator Amblyseius cucumeris established easier and reached higher population densities than the related species A. mckenziei (A. barkeri). Mixed populations of both predators were observed during several generations, but eventually A. mckenziei was superseded. A. cucumeris is considered the better predator for thrips control on this crop. -Author