Regresar

Biological aspects of Raoiella indica Hirst (Acari: Tenuipalpidae) on Musa spp. cultivars: Possible role of leaf anatomy and chemistry

Abstract:

Musa species have been reported as potential hosts for Raoiella indica; however, detailed information about host plant-pest relationship is not yet available. In this study, the possible effect of leaf anatomy and chemical composition in various Musa cultivars were evaluated on some mite's biological parameters. Raoiella indica reached adulthood only on cultivars Manzano and Topocho, showing adult survival rate 36 % and 7.2 %, respectively. In relation to oviposition, no significant differences were found between cultivars. Results suggest that anatomical features and chemical composition (mainly phenols) seem to influence R. indica feeding and reproduction. These facts suggest that these parameters seem to be related to cultivar resistance, thus more studies on other commercially important Musa cultivars should be addressed in order to validate our results.