Biological Control of Bradysia difformis using the Predatory Mite (Hypoaspis aculeifei) in Hydroponically Cultivated Strawberry

摘要

Biological control of the fungus gnat Bradysia difformis by the predatory mite Hypoaspis aculeifer was examined in hydroponic systems of strawberries in Namwon and Hapcheon varieties of Jeollabuk-do and Gyeongsangbuk-do provinces, respectively, from 2012 to 2013. The damage to strawberries caused by B. difformis was examined in seedling stages and during cultivation periods. To achieve environment-friendly management of B. difformis, 60.6 individuals of H. aculeifer were released per square-meter three and four times during cultivations periods of the Namwon and Hapcheon strawberry varieties, respectively. H. aculeifer had better control efficiency against of B. difformis than that observed with conventional cultural practices. Wilt symptoms and damage of strawberries due to B. difformis were decreased by approximately 7.4-10.4%.