Responses to stimuli from Oligonychus biharensis Hirst (Acari: Tetranychidae) on loquat leaves by Neoseiulus cucumeris (Oudemans) (Acari: Phytoseiidae)

Abstract Arrestment responses to stimuli from Oligonychus biharensis Hirst on loquat leaves by the predatory mite Neoseiulus cucumeris (Oudemans) were examined in the laboratory. Neoseiulus cucumeris females responded to stimuli from all stages or intact webs of O. biharensis, but not to eggs,destroyed webs, feces or feeding damage of O. biharensis. Neoseiulus cucumeris was often observed inside intact webs of O. biharensis. This response clearly increased the searching efficiency of N. cucumeris therefore benefiting the biocontrol of O. biharensis.