Impact of modified atmosphere on two mite species Glycyphagus domesticus (Astigmatina: Glycyphagidae) and Caloglyphus oudemansi (Astigmatina: Acaridae) infesting stored wheat grains

Stored grains are often infested by mites like Glycyphagus domesticus and Caloglyphus oudemansi , which compromise food quality and safety. This study evaluated the effectiveness of modified atmospheres enriched with CO 2 or N 2 against these mite species. Different concentrations of CO 2 (20 %, 40 %, and 60 %) and N 2 (97 % and 98 %) were tested for various exposure periods. Results showed that mortality rates increased with increase of exposure time and concentration. G. domesticus exhibited greater susceptibility than C. oudemansi, achieving 100 % egg mortality after 7 days at 60 % CO 2 and 98 % N 2 , whereas C. oudemansi eggs reached a maximum mortality of 70 % after 12 days under the same conditions. Adults of both species were more susceptible than immature stages. For large-scale applications, GM3 (60 % CO 2 ) and GM5 (98 % N 2 ) treatments, with LT 90 values, significantly reduced mite populations and weight loss in wheat grains over two months of storage compared to controls. In conclusion, these findings suggest that modified atmosphere is a viable method for controlling mites in stored grains. The use of 60 % CO 2 or 98 % N 2 can be recommended as a promising solution for managing G. domesticus and C. oudemansi infestations in stored wheat grains. This approach can contributing to reduced losses and improved food quality. • Modified atmospheres are effective against G. domesticus and C. oudemansi mites in stored grains. • The highest concentration of CO 2 and N 2 achieved 100 % mortality of G. domesticus eggs after 7 days. • G. domesticus was more susceptible than C. oudemansi to modified atmosphere treatments. • Exposure to 60 % CO 2 reduced G. domesticus (96.5–99.28 %) and C. oudemansi (91.62–95.51 %) over 2 months. • Exposure to 60 % CO 2 or 98 % N 2 effectively manages mites, protecting stored wheat quality and safety.