Olfactory response of predatory mite Phytoseiulus persimilis to synthetic methyl salicylate

We studied the role of methyl salicylate as an important part of volatile blends in searching behaviour of the predatory mite, Phytoseiulus persimilis (Athias-Henriot). We showed that Methyl Salicylate (MeSa) attracted the predatory mites (1 h starved) in a dose range of 0.02–20 μg. The highest attraction was recorded at the dose of 0.2 μg. The dose of 0.002 μg was considered under the detection level of the predator. P. persimilis could not detect the extra amount of MeSa (100 and 200 μg). The probable effect of starvation period on the predator response is discussed.