Seasonal dynamics and environmental influences of phytophagous mites infesting tomato and pepper crops

Abstract

The population dynamics of phytophagous mites infesting tomato and pepper plants in Qena Governorate, Egypt, were investigated over two consecutive seasons (2021/2022 and 2022/2023). Survey study identified nine species from five genera across four families; Tetranychidae, Tenuipalpidae, Eriophyidae, and Tarsonemidae in four localities; Qena, Qus, El Marashda, and Nag Hmady. The study recorded the first appearance of two-spotted spider mites on tomatoes in the 2nd week of December 2021, with peak infestations occurring in the 1st week of March 2022. In the following winter season, mites first appeared in October 2022, reaching peak densities in March 2023. On pepper plants, mites were first observed in January 2022, peaking in February 2022, while in the 2022/2023 season, the first appearance was in October 2022 with peak densities in March 2023. During the summer seasons, no mite infestations were recorded in 2022. However, in 2023, mites appeared in July, with peak densities in October 2023. The statistical analysis revealed a significant positive correlation between mite population density and relative humidity in the summer of 2023, with no significant correlation with temperature. These findings are consistent with previous research, which indicates a positive correlation between mite populations, temperature, and relative humidity. This study contributes valuable insights into the seasonal behavior and environmental factors influencing phytophagous mite populations, aiding in the development of effective pest management strategies for vegetable crops in Egypt.