Biocontrol introduction

Target pest: Panonychus ulmi (Acari: Tetranychidae), European red mite

Agent introduced: Phytoseiulus persimilis (Acarina: Phytoseiidae)

Imported: 1967, 1977

Import source: 1967 Britain, 1977 France

Released: 1967, 1978

Release details: Releases made 1967 are not detailed. 1978 releases were made in Auckland, Waikato, Hawke's Bay and Nelson.

Establishment: 1967 release did not establish. 1978 established and has become widespread

Impacts on target: Has reduced abundance of it's hosts and it is now uncommon to find P. ulmi.

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.