Open AccessNeoseiulus tunus (De Leon, 1967) (Acari: Phytoseiidae): is this a potential natural enemy of Aculops lycopersici (Massee, 1937) (Acari: Eriophyidae)?
Author(s) -
Felipe S. R. Amaral,
Mizael de Melo Ferreira,
Antônio C. Lofego
Publication year - 2021
Publication title -
entomological communications
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
ISSN - 2675-1305
DOI - 10.37486/2675-1305.ec03033
Subject(s) - tetranychus urticae , acari , phytoseiidae , eriophyidae , biology , population , botany , horticulture , pollen , predation , predator , ecology , medicine , environmental health
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.