Persian Journal of Acarology

Persian Journal of Acarology

Lethal and sub-lethal effects of fluxametamide and Sero-X on dynamic parameters of Neoseiulus californicus McGregor (Acari: Phytoseiidae)

Document Type : Original Article

Authors
1 Department of Plant Protection, Faculty of Agriculture, University of Tabriz, Tabriz
2 Department of Agricultural Zoology, Iranian Research Institute of Plant Protection, Agricultural Research Education and Extension Organization, Tehran
3 Department of Agricultural Entomology, Iranian Research Institute of Plant Protection, Agricultural Research Education and Extension Organization, Tehran, Iran
10.22073/pja.150209
Abstract
This study investigates the lethal and sub-lethal effects of the pesticides fluxametamide and Sero-X on the predatory mite, Neoseiulus californicus (McGregor). As a key biocontrol agent, N. californicus is crucial in regulating mite pest populations and small insects like thrips. Understanding the effects of these pesticides is essential for maintaining effective biological control strategies. In an integrated pest management (IPM) program, selecting low-risk pesticides that target pests while preserving beneficial organisms is critical. To assess these effects, bioassay tests were conducted under controlled laboratory conditions (25 ± 2 °C, 65 ± 5% RH, and a 16:8 light-dark photoperiod). Lethal bioassay test results showed that the LC50 values of fluxametamide and Sero-X on adults of N. californicus were 1421 mg/L and 2169 mg/L, respectively. The results showed that exposure to the LC30 concentration of either fluxametamide or Sero-X significantly affected the predator’s reproduction and developmental parameters. Both treatments reduced life table parameters (r, R0, λ, and GRR) while increasing generation time (T) compared to the control. Additionally, maternal exposure influenced progeny life history in varied ways. These findings highlight the need for sustainable pest management that minimizes chemical impact while preserving ecological balance, ensuring natural predators remain effective in agriculture.
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