Abstract
Trichomes are a first line of defense of plants against herbivorous arthropods, but they can also act as a barrier against natural enemies hampering biological control programmes. Despite the abundance of trichome types on tomato plants, many herbivorous arthropods can still evade these defenses. Over the past decades, numerous studies have evaluated the impact of tomato trichomes on phytophagous arthropods, yet few have examined their effects on biological control agents. Moreover, studies on the complex tri-trophic interactions among tomato plants, arthropod pests, and natural enemies remain limited, highlighting the need for further research to deepen our understanding of these relationships. Understanding the effects of tomato trichomes on both pests and biological control agents could enhance pest management strategies, informing tomato breeding and biological control programs. To support ongoing research and practical applications, this paper reviews the effects of tomato trichomes on the development of pests, including that of phytophagous mites and their natural enemies, with a particular focus on predatory mites. Current challenges and future directions are discussed.