Diversity of mites (Acari) in open-field strawberries from Western Türkiye

This two-year study (2023 and 2024) investigated mite species and their population dynamics in strawberry fields in Yatagan, Mugla province, southwestern Türkiye. A total of 15 mite species from two orders, four families, and 10 genera were identified. Plant feeders were Tetranychus urticae (Tetranychidae) and Phytonemus pallidus (Tarsonemidae). Predatory mites, primarily Neoseiulus californicus (46.2%) and Typhlodromus (T.) athiasae (41.1%) (Phytoseiidae), comprised 87.3% of the predatory mite population. The populations of T. urticae and predatory mites peaked simultaneously between late August and mid-September 2023, but both populations remained low in 2024. A strong correlation (Sorenson's coefficient) was observed between predatory mites and T. urticae across all fields in 2023 and 2024, indicating that predatory mites and acaricide applications suppress T. urticae populations below economic injury level. Moreover, a high diversity of predatory mite species was noted, suggesting adaptation under chemical control practices. These findings highlight the role of predatory mites in integrated pest management and the importance of biodiversity in pest control in strawberry fields. The study also emphasizes the potential for combining chemical control with conservation biological control methods to achieve sustainable agricultural practices.