Advances in research on Stethorus punctillum, an important predator of the spider mite
Author of the article:ZHANG Na;LIU Yu-Sheng;XIE Li-Xia***
Author's Workplace:College of Plant Protection, Shandong Agricultural University, Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory for Biology of Vegetable Diseases and Insect Pests, Taian 271018, China;College of Plant Protection, Shandong Agricultural University, Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory for Biology of Vegetable Diseases and Insect Pests, Taian 271018, China;College of Plant Protection, Shandong Agricultural University, Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory for Biology of Vegetable Diseases and Insect Pests, Taian 271018, China
Key Words:Stethorus punctillum; spider mite; biological control; predation; natural enemy
Abstract:
The spider mite an important global pest due to its small size, wide distribution, high reproductive capacity, rapid dispersal and resistance to insecticides. Stethorus punctillum Weise is a natural predator of spider mites that plays an important role in the biological control of these pests in orchards and other agricultural ecosystems. We summarize progress in research on S. punctillum, including its morphological characteristics, geographical distribution, occurrence, ecology, ethology, feeding and related factors affecting predation. This review documents the important role of S. punctillum in controlling spider mites and promotes the further utilization of this species as a biological control for these pests.