The physical action of three diatomaceous earths against the cuticle of the flour mite Acarus siro L. (Acari: Acaridae).

Experiments examined the accepted modes of action of the desiccant dust, diatomaceous earth (DE), against the flour mite, Acarus siro (L.) (Astigmata). Adult mites were exposed to three DE products for periods of 3, 18 and 72 h under conditions designed to allow partial desiccation of the mites without causing mortality.