Entomopathogenic nematodes and soil dwelling predatory mites [Elektronische Ressource] : suitable antagonists for enhanced biological control of Frankliniella occidentalis (Pergande) (Thysanoptera: Thripidae)? / von Oliver Berndt

Entomopathogenic nematodes and soil-dwelling predatory mites: Suitable antagonists for enhanced biological control of Frankliniella occidentalis (Pergande) (Thysanoptera: Thripidae)? Von dem Fachbereich Gartenbau der Universität Hannover zur Erlangung des Grades eines DOKTORS DER GARTENBAUWISSENSCHAFTEN – Dr. rer. hort. – genehmigte Dissertation von Dipl.-Biol. Oliver Berndt geboren am 17.09.1967, in Witten 2003 Referent: Prof. Dr. Hans-Michael Poehling Korreferent: PD Dr. Joachim Schliesske Tag der Promotion: 20.12.2002 For Janna Leena and Markus Summary V Summary Frankliniella occidentalis (Pergande) (Thysanoptera: Thripidae) (Western Flower Thrips, WFT) is one of the most important pests damaging a wide range of economic important crops in protected cultures worldwide. Its cryptic life cycle, combined with a very short generation time and the ability to rapidly develop resistances against insecticides, are characteristics that make pest control extremely difficult. Moreover, commonly used natu-ral enemies often do not lead to sufficient control levels. However it has been repeatedly reported that the life cycle of F. occidentalis includes a soil passage, which is still ne-glected in biocontrol strategies. Subjects of the present study were the quantification of the soil passage of F.