Effect of temperature on the life-history traits of Neoseiulus californicus (Acari: Phytoseiidae) fed on Panonychus ulmi.

The developmental rate and reproductive biology of Neoseiulus californicus, a generalist predator on spider mites and small insects, was investigated in the laboratory at five constant temperatures: 15, 20, 25, 30, and 34°C. The European red mite, Panonychus ulmi, an important pest in Korean apple orchards, was used as prey. Mean developmental time and adult longevity were inversely related to temperature from 15 to 30°C. Lifetime fecundity was greatest at 25°C, whereas daily fecundity was highest at 30°C. The sex ratio (female to male) was highest (0.77) at 25°C and lowest (0.67) at 34°C. Survivorship during immature development varied from 74.3 to 92.9%, with the lowest rate at 34°C. Life table parameters were analyzed and pseudo-replicates for the generation time (t ( G )), the intrinsic rate of natural increase (r (m)), finite rate of increase (λ), net reproductive rate (R (0)), and doubling time (t ( D )) were generated using the Jackknife method. Generation time (t ( G )) was lowest (10.7 days) at 34°C, R (0) was highest (49.2) at 25°C, and both r (m) (0.29) and λ (1.34) were highest at 30°C. In conclusion, the development and adult life-history traits obtained for N. californicus fed on P. ulmi indicated significant potential for biological control.