Abstract
ABSTRACT Neoseiulus barkeri (Hughes) is a generalist predatory mite with economic potential to control thrips and two spotted spider mites in protected cultivation. We evaluated the development and reproduction of N. barkeri on Ephestia kuehniella Zeller and Mycetoglyphus fungivorus Oudemans in the first (G1), third (G3), and sixth (G6) generation of rearing. On M. fungivorus, pre-adult duration was significantly longer in G6 than in G1 and G3, while on E. kuehniella the corresponding periods were equal in G3 and G6, meanwhile longer than that in G1. Fecundity and oviposition rate were higher on E. kuehniella than on M. fungivorus. The intrinsic rate of increase and the finite rate of increase were the highest when E. kuehniella eggs were offered in G1, whereas the lowest rates were obtained on M. fungivorus in G6. Female’s N. barkeri did not lose their capacity to capture and consume nymphs of Tetranychus urticae Koch after six generations of rearing on tested prey. Rearing of N. barkeri on M. fungivorus and E. kuehniella for six generations suggested their potential for mass production of the predator or sustaining its population in the crop after release.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
