Usefulness of DEET (N,n-diethyl-meta-toluamide) in the directed expulsion of different groups of mites and invertebrates in Berlese-Tullgren funnels

Current mite sampling methods are effective but lack specificity for targeting particular organism groups. Previous research highlighted DEET as a more efficient repellent than light bulbs in extractors. This study expanded on that by testing DEET concentrations (control, 2.5ml, 3.5ml, 5ml of 50% DEET) for extracting soil invertebrates. Soil samples were collected monthly over six months from three locations within a 2m diameter area, totaling 72 samples (12 per month). Samples were dissected, and mites from Astigmatina, Oribatida, and Mesostigmata orders were counted, excluding Prostigmata due to their sporadic presence. Results confirm DEET’s superior efficacy over light bulbs, with varying effects across concentrations and mite groups, suggesting DEET’s potential as a selective repellent. Further research could optimize DEET concentrations for specific soil organisms.