Predation Capacity and Prey Preference of Scolothrips longicornis (Thysanoptera: Thripidae) on Spider Mite Species

Abstract

Predation capacity and prey preference of Scolothrips longicornis (Thysanoptera: Thripidae) were evaluated on different spider mite species to assess its potential as a biological control agent in mite-infested agroecosystems. Laboratory experiments were conducted under controlled conditions using multiple prey densities and alternative mite species to quantify consumption rates, developmental performance, and prey selection behavior. Results indicated that S. longicornis exhibited strong predatory activity against spider mites, with predation rates increasing with prey density up to a saturation point. Among the tested prey species, significant variation in prey preference was observed, suggesting selective feeding behavior influenced by prey size, mobility, and defensive traits. Predator developmental duration was reduced and fecundity increased when feeding on more suitable spider mite hosts, indicating a direct relationship between prey quality and predator fitness. Functional response analysis revealed a density-dependent feeding pattern consistent with efficient exploitation of high prey populations. The predator also demonstrated adaptability across different mite species, although optimal performance was recorded on specific tetranychid hosts. The study highlights the ecological significance of S. longicornis as a natural enemy of spider mites and its potential integration into pest management programs. These findings support its use in augmentative biological control strategies aimed at reducing reliance on chemical acaricides in protected and field crop systems.