First record of two insects preying on the red tomato spider mite Tetranychus evansi (Acari: Tetranychidae) in Latakia governorate, Syria

Abstract

The red tomato spider mite Tetranychus evansi is an important invasive pest of solanaceous plants worldwide. It has been recorded in Syria since 2011 in Latakia governorate, a Mediterranean coastal region. During survey conducted in 2019, the ladybird beetle, Stethorus gilvifrons (Mulsant) (Coleoptera: Coccinellidae) and the acarivorous gall midge, Feltiella acarisuga (Vallot) (Diptera: Cecidomyiidae) were identified in association with T. evansi colonies on tomato and black nightshade from 12 sites in Latakia. Larvae of F. acarisuga, and larvae and adults of S. gilvifrons, were observed preying on all developmental stages of T. evansi. This is the first record of T. evansi as a prey of S. gilvifrons. A literature review of Stethorus and Feltiella species previously reported in association with T. evansi on solanaceous plants is also provided.