Biology, population built up and damage potential of Red spider mite, Tetranychus urticae Koch (Acari: Tetranychidae) on marigold: A review

Abstract

Marigold (Tagetus sp.) is a commercially exploited flower crop and is having a prominent place in ornamental horticulture. Agriculture is having a large impact on human economics and the emergence of red spider mite, Tetranychus urticae as a serious pest of marigold is a major concern. It leads to an economic yield reduction in crops depending on cropping seasons and agro- climatic conditions. Once it is established in an area, it is hard to get rid of it due to its high fecundity, dispersal techniques, short life cycles, rapid development of resistance to acaricides and adaptability to various ecological conditions. There is an urgent need to create awareness for this acarine and its behaviour for its timely management. This review gives a complete picture of the two spotted spider mite, Tetranychus urticae, including its pests, biology, population dynamics, effect of environment and the damage it causes to marigold crop. Awareness through this documentation will open new scope for its early detection on marigold crop.