Life Table Analysis and Demographic Statistics of Typhlodromips swirskii (Acari: Phytoseiidae) Fed on Pollen Diets

Abstract

The predatory mite Typhlodromips swirskii is widely recognized as an effective biological control agent in protected cultivation systems, particularly against thrips and whiteflies. Laboratory experiments were conducted to evaluate its life table parameters and demographic performance when fed on pollen-based diets under controlled environmental conditions. Developmental duration, survival rate, fecundity, and population growth parameters were assessed to determine the suitability of pollen as an alternative food source for mass rearing and field establishment. Results indicated that T. swirskii successfully completed its life cycle on pollen diets, exhibiting high survival rates across immature stages. Developmental time from egg to adult was moderately short, suggesting that pollen provides adequate nutritional support for growth and reproduction. Female fecundity was positively influenced by pollen availability, with sustained oviposition throughout the adult lifespan. Life table analysis revealed a positive intrinsic rate of increase, high net reproductive rate, and favorable finite rate of increase, indicating strong population growth potential under pollen-feeding conditions. Mean generation time was relatively short, supporting rapid population turnover. Survival curves demonstrated gradual mortality across life stages, with higher survival in early developmental stages compared with later adult stages. Demographic parameters highlighted the suitability of pollen diets for maintaining stable populations of T. swirskii in rearing systems. The ability of the predator to utilize pollen as a food source enhances its survival during prey scarcity, improving its persistence in agroecosystems. These findings emphasize the ecological adaptability of T. swirskii and its potential for integration into biological control programs.