Tyrophagus putrescentiae (Schrank) (Astigmata: Acaridae) as a new predator of Lasioderma serricorne (F.) (Coleoptera: Anobiidae) in tobacco stores in Greece

While studying Lasioderma serricorne in tobacco stores, during the years 2002 and 2003, the presence of the cosmopolitan mite species Tyrophagus putrescentiae 1 preying on live L. serricorne larvae was noted. At intervals during this 2-year period, samples of dried tobacco leaves infested with L. serricorne were taken and the rate of parasitism by the mite was measured. The percentage of L. serricorne predated by T. putrescentiae, depending on time and tobacco store, was about 20%. Tyrophagus putrescentiae is reported for the first time as a predator of L. serricorne in tobacco stores in Greece.