Persian Journal of Acarology

Persian Journal of Acarology

Effect of temperature on the biological parameters of the predatory mite, Phytoseiulus persimilis (Acari: Phytoseiidae)

Document Type : Original Article

Authors
Seyed Mohammad-Mahdi Sarvi 1
Malihe Latifi 1
Seyyed Rasoul Sahhafi 2
1 Department of Plant Protection, College of Agriculture, Vali-e-Asr University of Rafsanjan, Rafsanjan, Iran
2 Department of Genetics and Plant Production, College of Agriculture, Vali-e-Asr University of Rafsanjan, Rafsanjan, Iran
10.22073/pja.150204
Abstract
The two-spotted spider mite, Tetranychus urticae Koch (Acari: Tetranychidae), is a major agricultural pest, and the predatory mite Phytoseiulus persimilis Athias-Henriot is one of its most effective natural enemies. Since temperature strongly influences predator biology, in the present study, the effects of five constant temperatures (21, 23, 25, 27, and 29 °C) on the development, survival, and reproduction of P. persimilis using age-stage and two-sex life table analysis were evaluated. Developmental time decreased with increasing temperature, while reproductive onset occurred earlier at warmer conditions. Maximum fecundity, net reproductive rate (R0 = 14.62), and intrinsic rate of increase (r = 0.35) were recorded at 25–27 °C, indicating an optimal range for population growth. However, adult longevity and reproductive performance sharply declined at 29°C, suggesting heat stress limitations. These results confirmed that P. persimilis exhibits peak biological performance at moderate temperatures (24–27°C), reinforcing its suitability as a biocontrol agent under controlled environments but highlighting reduced efficiency under extreme heat. The findings provided practical insights for optimizing mass rearing and field release strategies within integrated pest management programs.
Keywords
Life table
predatory mites
survival
temperature
Tetranychus urticae

Subjects

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