The effect of different levels of NPK on the infestation of Aculops lycopersici (Massee) (Acari: Eriophyidae) on tomato (Lycopersicon esculentum Mill), cultivar IPA 5, under field conditions was studied. The experimental design of randomized blocks with a factorial arrangement was used, including four blocks and utilizing four levels of N (0, 60, 120, and 180 kg/ha), three levels of P (0, 80, and 160 kg/ha), and two levels of K (0 and 120 kg/ha). The active forms of A. lycopersici were sampled weekly, 53 to 113 days after the tomato plants were sowed. Twenty five leaflets were collected from the intermediate part of the plants and an area of 1,76 cm² of the under side of these leaflets with bigger colonies was examined. The plants fertilized with 120 kg/ha of K were more infested by A. lycopersici. There was a direct relationship between mite infestation and the levels of P applied to the soil; At a K level of 120 kg/ha the infestation increased with P levels. At N levels of 60 and 180 kg/ha the infestation increased, whereas at 120 kg/ha it was reduced. However the NP interaction presented a low effect on the infestation at higher levels of N. The levels of N and P applied to the soil were positive and significantly correlated to the content found in the tomato leaves. No significat correlation was observed with regard to K.
Insecta; tomato russet mite; Lycopersicon; esculentum; mineral nutrition; pest management
