Journal of Taiwan Agricultural Research

Author:Jhih-Rong Liao*, Chyi-Chen Ho, and Chiun-Cheng Ko

Abstract:

Climate change significantly challenges agricultural ecosystems, impacting pest and natural enemy dynamics and the effectiveness of biological control. Predatory mites (phytoseiid mites), crucial in the sustainable management of various agricultural pests, are particularly susceptible to these changing conditions. This review focuses on the influence of climate change on the biological control potential of predatory mites, identifying critical gaps in current knowledge that limit the development of climate-resilient biological control strategies. It examines how altered temperature regimes, precipitation patterns, and extreme weather events affect the physiology, distribution, and interactions of predatory mites with their prey. The review highlights the necessity for adaptive strategies to preserve and enhance the biological control efficacy of predatory mites against climate change. Through case studies, we illustrate practical implications and adaptive measures in managing predatory mites under changing climatic conditions. Urging dedicated research into species-specific climatic adaptability and the enhancement of predictive modeling for biological control outcomes, this analysis emphasizes the imperative for innovative management practices to tackle the challenges posed by climate change. A holistic approach, merging ecological, genetic, and technological insights, is crucial to sustain the functionality of biological control systems in a warming world.

Key words:Climate resilience, Pest management, Adaptation strategies, Ecosystem dynamics, Sustainable agriculture

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