Carbamate and organophosphorus sprays as alternatives to DDT to control red-legged earth mites (Halotydeus destructor and Penthaleus major)

Abstract

Four experiments, two conducted in 1962 and two in 1963, are described. Low volume applications of two carbamates, eight organophosphorous compounds, and a quinoxaline miticide were tested for their value in controlling the two species of red-legged earth mites, Halotydeus destructor (Tucker) and Penthaleus major (Duges) alongside the standard DDT treatment of four ounces active ingredient an acre. Two of the organophosphorous compounds, namely azinphos ethyl and 'Imidan' applied at half an ounce active ingredient an acre, were shown to give effective control of both mite species for at least five weeks and can now be recommended as alternative mite control treatments that would eliminate the risk of contamination of meat or animal products by undesirable residues. Since DDT at 2 oz active ingredient an acre gave very effective mite control, this lower dosage may- be useful in lessening the residue risk.