Genetic Improvement of Metaseiulus occidentalis: Selection with Methomyl, Dimethoate, and Carbaryl and Genetic Analysis of Carbaryl Resistance12

Abstract

Metaseiulus occidentalis (Nesbitt), a spider mite predator, was selected for resistance to methomyl, dimethoate, and carbaryl in the laboratory. Two colonies were selected with each pesticide. All responded to selection, although the methomyl and dimethoate resistance levels achieved were low. The carbaryl resistance appears to be inherited as a single dominant gene. Reasons for the absence of carbaryl resistance in the field are discussed.