Abstract
Knowledge of the effects of pesticides on biological control agents is necessary for the successful implementation of integrated pest management programs. Laboratory bioassays were conducted to evaluate the effects of Biomite®, a natural acaricide, on the life table parameters of Neoseiulus californicus McGregor (Acari: Phytoseiidae), as one of the most important natural enemies of Tetranychus urticae Koch (Acari: Tetranychidae) under laboratory conditions at 25 ± 2°C, 65 ± 5% RH and a photoperiod of 16:8 (L:D) h. The raw data were analyzed based on the two-sex life table theory. Biomite® concentrations LC10 and LC20 gradually and significantly reduced the longevity and total life span of both sexes, as well as total fecundity. Besides, concentration LC20 significantly reduced the gross reproductive rate (GRR) and the net reproductive rate (R0). However, the intrinsic rate of increase (r) and the finite rate of increase (λ) were not significantly affected. Thereby, due to an unfavorable shortened in life history characters of N. californicus such as total life span, reproductive periods and biological parameters (such as R0 and GRR), as a consequence of Biomite® treatment, it can be concluded that this acaricide should not be used with N. californicus in integrated pest management programs.
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