抄録
Amblyseius swirskii（Acari: Phytoseiidae） has been reported to be an effective biological control agent against Thrips palmi. Three release methods of A. swirskii were investigated for suitability with lateral branch taking-down cultivation, sprinkle release method: sprinkling A. swirskii onto leaves （the conventional method）; broadcast release method: release from the top of the plant; and paper cup release method: release using a paper cup containing A. swirskii, its food and oviposition substrate. A. swirskii dispersed rapidly on the main branch by the broadcast release method. In contrast, on the lateral branch, which is the main harvest branch for cucumber fruits, A. swirskii dispersion was slower after release by the broadcast release method than by the paper cup release method. The sprinkle release method resulted in poor dispersion, because many A. swirskii remained on the leaf which they were released. The paper cup release method reduced the effect of Beauveria bassiana ES which was applied for control of T. palmi adult which A. swirskii does not prey on. Therefore, we conclude that paper cup release is the method most suitable for lateral branch taking-down cultivation of cucumber and should be performed in combination with broadcast release for stable control of Thrips palmi.
