Effectiveness of <i>Neomolgus capillatus</i> (Kramer) (Acarina: Bdellidae) as a Predator of <i>Sminthurus viridis</i> (L.) (Collembola: Sminthuridae) in Northwestern Tasmania

Abstract

ABSTRACT Autumn populations of lucerne flea, Sminthurus viridis , have been reduced by about 95% to non‐damaging levels in north‐west Tasmania by the addition of the introduced predator the spiny snout mite, Neomolgus capillatus , to the established predator complex. Low activity of N. capillatus in early spring reduced its ability to control S. viridis later in spring. the possible use of an additional predator, a whirligig mite, Anystis wallacei Otto, that could improve control of spring populations is discussed.