Research report on the presence and biology of astigmatid mite species in biological control products with predatory mites

In a previous COGEM advisory report on the necessary containment measures for the use of biological control agents in greenhouses with genetically modified (GM) plants, it was noted that products containing predatory mites may also include prey mites. Because it was unclear whether these prey mites pose a risk for the spread of GM pollen, COGEM commissioned research into the presence of prey mite species in products containing predatory mites.

The report describes which prey mite species were found in various predatory mite products, and provides insight into their biological and ecological characteristics as well as their dispersal potential. Special attention was given to the potential for these mites to come into contact with (GM) pollen.

Based on the report, COGEM published an advisory report regarding the required containment measures for the prey mite species present in predatory mite products. Additional containment measures are only recommended for the species Tyrophagus putrescentiae. The COGEM advisory report is only available on the Dutch website. The research report can be downloaded using the link below.