Babu, A., Selvasundaram, R., Muraleedharan, N., Sasidhar, R., 2004.
A new predator of red spider mites. Newsletter - UPASI Tea Research Foundation, 14:.
Abstract
Surveys were conducted at Vandiperiyar, Kerala, India to explore the populations of natural enemies of the red spider mite, Oligonychus coffeae, infesting tea. Red spider mite-infested leaves were examined in the laboratory for the occurrence of predators. The study revealed the presence of a new predatory green lacewing, Mallada boninensis, feeding on eggs, nymphs, adults of the red spider mite. Newly emerged larvae preferred eggs and quiescent stages of the red spider mite, while later instars showed preference for neonates and adult mites. The lacewing larvae exhibited camouflaging behaviour by carrying the debris and castings over the body as a protective mechanisms, which is usually not seen in other groups of predators. Adults laid stalked eggs on the lower side of infested leaves. There was a gradual increase in the rate of feeding as development proceeded from the first to the third instar.
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