Population dynamics of the acarofauna (Acari) and characterization of Tenuipalpus cedrelae (Acari: Tenuipalpidae) damage on plants of Cedrela fissilis (Meliaceae) used in the landscaping of the Ilha Solteira city, São Paulo

Abstract

Cedrela fissilis Vellozo (Meliaceae), a native species found in various phyto-ecological regions, is widely used in landscaping of parks and gardens in several cities, as occurs in the municipality of Ilha Solteira, São Paulo State. In this location, the mite Tenuipalpus cedrelae DeLeon (Tenuipalpidae) can reach high populations, causing leaves bronzing and later defoliation, which impair the plants ornamental role. In urban areas, the use of pesticides for pest control is limited, since these places are frequented by people and animals, which may be exposed to toxic residues of products. On the other hand, the studies of acarofauna associated with native plants in São Paulo State has recorded the occurrence of various species of predaceous mites, suggesting that they may serve as refuge and alternative food for pest potential natural enemies. Research objectives are: 1. describe the symptoms and damage caused by T. cedrelae in C. fissilis plants; 2. identify the mites species that occur and study the population dynamics of these acarofauna; 3. determine whether the occurrence of pests can make non-viable the use of C. fissilis as an ornamental plant in urban areas; 4. determine whether C. fissilis can serve as a reservoir of agricultural importance predaceous mites. The experiment will be carried out in five plants presents in public area, in the municipality of Ilha Solteira, SP. Monthly, of each plant, will be collected three leaves at random, with sixteen leaflets each, for mites mounting on microscope slides, identification and counting in laboratory. Photos of the mites species found will be made and placed available at the electronic address of the Acarology laboratory-UNESP, Ilha Solteira, as a contribution to the knowledge of the São Paulo State biodiversity. The symptoms resulting from the attack of T. cedrelae will be characterized using a digital camera. The data of mites number per leaflet, of each species registered, will be correlated with temperature, relative humidity and precipitation data. The phytophagous mites populations and possible predators are also subject to correlation analysis. (AU)