The biology and population dynamics of the bulb mite, Rhizoglyphus robini Claparede (Acari: Acaridae)

In this study, the population dynamics of Rhizoglyphus robini Claparede (Acari: Acaridae) were examined in two distinct garlic and onion cultivation regions within Kastamonu Province during the years 2018–2019. Weekly samplings were conducted separately from both the bulb and green parts of onion plants at each location. No pesticide applications were made in the areas where the population density of R. robini was assessed. During each growing season, 12 samples were collected from each onion site, resulting in a total of 48 samples for this study. The fluctuations in population density displayed similarities between the two locations, with average intensity values in the bulbs reaching their peak, particularly in May and June. Conversely, no significant density was observed in the green parts of the onions, as the mite population in these areas remained at a low level.