Determination of the biological efficacy of the predatory mites Amblyseius montdorensis Schicha and Amblyseius andersoni Chant in regulating spider mite and thrips populations in raspberry plantings

Abstract

Background and Aim. An integrated raspberry pest management system plays a key role in berry production, as it effectively controls phytophagous pests. Spider mites (Tetranychus urticae Koch) and thrips (Frankliniella intonsa Trybom.) are among the dominant pests. Berry damage causes physiological disturbances, leading to stunted plant growth and a significant reduction in yield. The aim of this study was to determine the biological effectiveness of the predatory mites Amblyseius montdorensis Schicha and Amblyseius andersoni Chant in controlling spider mites and thrips in raspberry plantations.

Materials and Methods. The study was conducted in 2025 at the “Semirechye” nursery (Marichka variety) and the “Turgen-Zhemis” farm (Polka variety) in Almaty Region on raspberry plantations. Pest census and insect density determinations were conducted using standard entomological methods.

Results. The results showed that Amblyseius andersoni demonstrated the highest biological efficacy against thrips, reaching 83.1%, while Amblyseius montdorensis demonstrated 77.9%. Both predatory mite species demonstrated high efficacy against spider mites: Amblyseius andersoni demonstrated 88.8% efficacy, while Amblyseius montdorensis demonstrated 87.8%.

Conclusion. The studies confirmed the high biological efficacy of Amblyseius montdorensis and Amblyseius andersoni against thrips and spider mites on raspberries, supporting their potential for use in integrated crop protection systems.