satsumas

A recently published study conducted at Auburn University in the US, aiming to find ways of countering the citrus red mite, has yielded positive results.

The citrus red mite is a particular problem for satsuma growers on the US Gulf Coast, with the pest feeding on the satsuma's leaves and fruit.

However, the research found that three commercially available predatory mites are effective against the pest – Phytoseiulus persimilis. Galendromus occidentalis and Neoseiulus californicus.

Satsuma expert Henry Fadamiro and doctoral student Yingfang Xiao offered citrus red mite eggs and nymphs to the predatory species, with P. persimilis demonstrating the greatest potential for biological control, particularly with regards to heavy infestations.

The authors concluded that ongoing field studies would help establish the practical value of the predatory value of the predatory mites to satsuma producers.