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??g. The highest attraction was recorded at the dose of 0.2??g. The dose of 0.002??g was considered under the detection level of the predator.P. persimiliscould not detect the extra amount of MeSa (100 and 200??g). The probable effect of starvation period on the predator response is discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]