Red spider mite, Panonychus ulmi (Acari: Tetranychidae) is a significant pest in apple tree in Fraiburgo, Santa Catarina (SC) and applied biological control was implemented in the mid-nineties. The objective of this study was to demonstrate the economic benefits of biological control in the management of red spider mite. The assessment was carried out in two commercial orchards, one of which was subjected to biological control of spider mite by releasing the predator Neoseiulus californicus, insecticide selection and weed management, and the other to conventional arthropod management, based on the application of chemicals to control insects, phytofagous mites and weed. Economic analysis showed that the costs for labor and machines were similar in both orchards; however acaricide costs were significantly lower in the orchard subjected to biological control, demonstrating that despite the need for investment in predator mite breeding apparatus and maintenance costs, the biological strategy was economically viable.
applied biological control; chemical control; economic management; Neoseiulus californicus; Panonychus ulmi
