Review paper
Pesticide resistance evolution inTetranychusmites: from molecular mechanisms to sustainable management
Xu, Dandan; Zhang, Yan; Zhang, Youjun; Dewer, Youssef; Wei, Peng; Wang, Shaoli
Entomologia Generalis Volume 46 Number 2 (2026), p. 397 - 411
published: Apr 29, 2026
published online: Feb 12, 2026
manuscript accepted: Dec 17, 2025
final revised version received: Sep 28, 2025
manuscript revision requested: Sep 15, 2025
manuscript received: Jun 29, 2025
Open Access (paper may be downloaded free of charge)
Abstract
Tetranychusmites, particularlyTetranychus urticae, Tetranychus cinnabarinus, andTetranychus truncatus, pose serious threats to horticultural productivity in China due to their extensive direct damage to crops. The intensive use of acaricides has significantly accelerated resistance development, withT. urticaedemonstrating remarkable adaptability and rapid evolution of resistance. This review systematically evaluates the current status of pesticide resistance and the underlying molecular mechanisms in majorTetranychusspecies affecting horticultural crops in China. It provides a comprehensive overview of recent advances in identifying specific genetic mutations responsible for target-site resistance, as well as metabolic detoxification pathways involving cytochrome P450 monooxygenases, esterases, and glutathione S-transferases and other detoxifying enzymes. Furthermore, the application of advanced molecular techniques – including transcriptome sequencing, quantitative trait locus (QTL) mapping, RNA interference (RNAi), and heterologous expression – has greatly enhanced our understanding of resistance mechanisms and mite adaptability. Despite these advances, resistance management remains challenging due to the complex interplay of genetic, biological, and environmental factors, underscoring the need for region-specific research and targeted management strategies. This review highlights the importance of integrated pest management (IPM) strategies that combine molecular monitoring, strategic chemical rotation, and enhanced biological control measures to achieve sustainable resistance mitigation. Finally, we emphasize the need for research to refine genetic intervention techniques and improve the cost-effectiveness and field applicability of biological control approaches, ensuring the long-term protection of horticultural crop production in China.
Keywords
spider mites • horticultural crops • acaricide • molecular mechanisms • integrated pest management (IPM) • cytochrome P450 monooxygenases • cross-resistance • biological control