Mites associated with Garlic and Onion crops at some localities in Egypt

The diversity and distribution of phytophagous and predacious mites that inhabit garlic and onion crops at the season (2022/2023) in different Egyptian localities are investigated in this study. Garlic has been identified as having mite species belonging to Acaridae, Histiostomatidae, and Tarsonemidae. Rhizoglyphus robini and Mycetoglyphus fungivorus were found to be the most common species, especially in Sohag and Giza. However, specific species, such as Tyrophagus tropicus, showed more individuals in storage settings, indicating a higher degree of adaptation to these conditions. Concerns about field and storage conditions have been caused by the continuous dominance of Rhizoglyphus robini and Mycetoglyphus fungivorus as pests in onion crops in all examined regions. Predacious mite families, particularly Pyemotidae, are identified in the study. Pyemote sherfsi is found everywhere, indicating that it may play a role in natural pest control in various ecological settings. In general, Overall, this research underscores the need for targeted pest management strategies about the specific habitats and environmental conditions that favor these mite populations, thereby contributing to improved agricultural practices in garlic and onion cultivation.