Biocontrol introduction

Target pest: Tetranychus urticae (Acari: Tetranychidae), two-spotted spider mite

Agent introduced: Phytoseiulus persimilis (Acarina: Phytoseiidae)

Imported: 1967, 1977

Import source: 1967 England, 1977 France

Released: 1967 (?), 1978

Release details: 1978 releases were made at several sites

Establishment: 1967 importation established in Canterbury and probably elsewhere. 1978 releases also established. Occurs in Auckland, Hawke's Bay, Nelson and Canterbury. South Canterbury and Otago populations do not appear to survive over winter

Impacts on target: Valuable and sucessful component of IPM.

References

Cameron PJ, Hill RL, Bain J, Thomas WP (1989). A Review of Biological Control of Invertebrate Pests and Weeds in New Zealand 1874-1987. Technical Communication No 10. CAB International Institute of Biological Control. DSIR Entomology Division. 424p.