Biology, demographic parameters and predatory potential of the predatory mite Neoseiulus longispinosus against Tetranychus urticae on different vegetable crops.

Phytoseiid predatory mite, Neoseiulus longispinosus (Evans), is employed to control various pest species, such as phytophagous mites and arthropods. Depending on the host plant, the effectiveness of predators against the target pest may change. However, comparative studies on the life history and predation potential of N. longispinosus on different vegetable hosts have not yet been conducted. Therefore, in the present study, experiments were conducted to determine the indirect effect of several host plants on the biology, predation rate and demographic parameters of N. longispinosus against Tetranychus urticae. The results showed that female longevity was maximum on bean (25.40 days) and minimum on brinjal and tomato (14.22 days each). On bean, the female predatory mite consumed the highest prey (139.50 eggs) during its entire lifespan. The demographic parameters were analyzed and the results were better on bean and followed by cucumber, while they were comparatively poor on brinjal and tomato. These results highlight how crucial host plants are for the effectiveness of biological control. Nevertheless, further studies are required to investigate in detail the role of plant biophysical characters on the predation and demographics of the predator. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]