Neoseiulus tunus (De Leon, 1967) (Acari: Phytoseiidae): is this a potential natural enemy of Aculops lycopersici (Massee, 1937) (Acari: Eriophyidae)?

Felipe S R Amaral,Mizael M Ferreira,Antonio C Lofego

doi:10.37486/2675-1305.ec03033

Felipe S R Amaral, Mizael M Ferreira + Show 1 more

Open Access

https://doi.org/10.37486/2675-1305.ec03033

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Abstract

This study aimed to determine the biological parameters of Neoseiulus tunus (De Leon, 1967) feeding on Aculops lycopersici (Massee, 1937). We conducted experiments to assess the predation rate of the former and its biological cycle when consuming A. lycopersici exclusively. Moreover, we assessed the preference of N. tunus for A. lycopersici concerning the pollen of Typha domingensis Pers. (Typhaceae) and Tetranychus urticae Koch, 1835, using free-choice tests. The obtained data indicates A. lycopersici is an appropriate prey to N. tunus, as it allows it to complete its development, reproduce and increase its population. We also noticed that this phytoseiid prefers A. lycopersici to the two other food sources. Though more robust studies will be needed, these preliminary results allow some inferences, such as N. tunus being a potential natural enemy of A. lycopersici.

Highlights

This study aimed to determine the biological parameters of Neoseiulus tunus (De Leon, 1967) feeding on Aculops lycopersici (Massee, 1937)
Considering the frequency in which N. tunus is found on solanaceous plants and the fact that many species of the family Phytoseiidae are efficient predators of agricultural pests, N. tunus may be a potential natural enemy of Solanaceae pests such as A. lycopersici
The first experiment consisted of a biological essay intended to determine the life table of N. tunus when fed with A. lycopersici

Summary

Introduction

This study aimed to determine the biological parameters of Neoseiulus tunus (De Leon, 1967) feeding on Aculops lycopersici (Massee, 1937). Considering the frequency in which N. tunus is found on solanaceous plants and the fact that many species of the family Phytoseiidae are efficient predators of agricultural pests, N. tunus may be a potential natural enemy of Solanaceae pests such as A. lycopersici. The first experiment consisted of a biological essay intended to determine the life table of N. tunus when fed with A. lycopersici.

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