Side‐effects of 100 pesticides on the predatory mite Phytoseiulus persimilis, collected and evaluated according to the EPPO Guideline

A sequential decision‐making scheme for classifying the side‐effects of pesticides on the predatory mite Phytoseiulus persimilis has been published recently as an EPPO Guideline. Practical experience with the use of this guideline is reported in this paper. One hundred commercially available plant protection products were tested on the organophosphateresistant P. persimilis population now predominant in Europe. Test results and hazard classifications of these 51 insecticides/acaricides, 33 fungicides, 12 herbicides and 4 growth regulators are given. Criteria for classification are those recommended by the IOBC/WPRS Working Group‘Pesticides and Beneficial Organisms’. The use of the scheme appeared to be practical and efficient.