Population dynamics of mites (Acari) on Diospyros kaki Thunb. and Diospyros lotus L. (Ebenaceae) trees in Ordu, Turkey

Abstract

Populations of mites (Phytoseiidae, Stigmaeidae, Cunaxidae, Cheyletidae, Tenuipalpidae, Tarsonemidae, Tydeidae, Acaridae) were monitored on Diospyros kaki Thunb. and Diospyros lotus L. (Ebenaceae) in Ordu, Turkey during 2012 and 2013. Phytoseiid, tydeid and acarid populations were higher on D. kaki (both seasons). Cunaxid populations were higher on this species in 2012. Tenuipalpids (2012) and stigmaeids (2013) were significantly more abundant on D. lotus. Populations of pest mites did not reach high levels in persimmon trees not exposed to pesticides. A significant positive correlation between rainfall and tenuipalpid (both persimmon species in 2013) and cunaxid (D. lotus, 2013) populations. There was also a significant negative correlation between relative humidity and tydeid (D. kaki in 2012) and cunaxid (D. kaki in 2013) populations. Temperature showed generally a positive correlation with mite populations, however, a significant negative correlation was detected in tenuipalpid (both species in 2012, D. kaki in 2013) and cheyletid populations (D. kaki in 2012).