Biology and Prey Consumption of Deraeocoris pallens (Hemiptera: Miridae) on Tetranychus urticae on Strawberry

Abstract

Biology and prey consumption of Deraeocoris pallens (Hemiptera: Miridae) were investigated on Tetranychus urticae infesting strawberry (Fragaria × ananassa Duch.) to evaluate its predatory potential under controlled laboratory conditions. Developmental duration, survival, longevity, fecundity, and feeding rates were recorded across nymphal and adult stages of the predator when supplied with spider mite prey. Results indicated successful development of D. pallens on T. urticae, with high nymphal survival and efficient prey utilization, confirming host suitability for predator growth and reproduction. Prey consumption increased progressively with predator age, with late instar nymphs and adults exhibiting the highest feeding rates. Functional response analysis indicated increased prey consumption with rising prey density up to a saturation point, beyond which handling time limited further predation. The predator showed preference for immature stages of T. urticae, particularly eggs and early nymphs, due to their limited mobility and ease of capture. Adult females demonstrated higher consumption rates and longer longevity compared to males, contributing to sustained predation pressure over time. Temperature significantly influenced feeding activity, with optimal predation observed under moderately warm conditions typical of strawberry cultivation systems. Continuous prey availability supported stable predator performance and indicated potential for population establishment under field conditions. The study highlights the effectiveness of D. pallens as a natural enemy of T. urticae in strawberry ecosystems and supports its inclusion in integrated pest management programs. These findings provide baseline information for mass-rearing, field release strategies, and biological control optimization in strawberry production systems.