Biology and Age-Specific Life Table of Amblyseius andersoni (Acari: Phytoseiidae) Fed on Panonychus ulmi Eggs

Abstract

Biological performance and age-specific life table parameters of Amblyseius andersoni (Acari: Phytoseiidae) were evaluated when fed on eggs of Panonychus ulmi to assess its suitability as a biological control agent in orchard ecosystems. Developmental duration, survival, fecundity, and predation efficiency were recorded under controlled laboratory conditions across all immature and adult stages. Results indicated successful development from egg to adult with high survival rates, demonstrating the compatibility of P. ulmi eggs as a suitable food source. Female longevity and oviposition period were significantly higher than those of males, contributing to sustained reproductive output. Life table analysis revealed favorable demographic parameters, including elevated net reproductive rate, intrinsic rate of increase, and finite rate of increase, indicating strong population growth potential under optimal conditions. Age-specific survival curves showed gradual mortality across developmental stages, while fecundity peaked during early to mid-adult age, reflecting a Type I survivorship pattern typical of efficient predatory mites. Predation capacity increased with prey availability up to an optimal threshold, beyond which handling constraints limited feeding efficiency. Temperature conditions significantly influenced developmental rate and reproductive performance, with enhanced biological activity observed under moderately warm environments. The study confirms that A. andersoni can effectively utilize P. ulmi eggs for growth and reproduction, supporting its role as a potential biocontrol agent in integrated pest management programs for fruit orchards. These findings provide essential baseline data for mass rearing, field release strategies, and predictive population modeling aimed at sustainable management of spider mite infestations in perennial cropping systems.