When do predatory mites (Phytoseiidae) attack? Understanding their diel and seasonal predation patterns

摘要: Predatory mites of the Phytoseiidae family are considered one most important groups natural enemies used in biological control. The behavioral patterns arthropods can differ greatly daily and seasonally; however, there is a lack literature related to diel seasonal predation patterns. predatory activity three phytoseiid species (two Tetranychidae-specialists, Phytoseiulus persimilis Neoseiulus californicus, omnivore, Euseius stipulatus) that occur naturally Spanish citrus orchards was observed under laboratory conditions winter summer. temperature photoperiod climatic chamber where were reared did not change during experiment. Our study demonstrates phytoseiids exhibit when feeding on Tetranychus urticae (Acari: Tetranychidae). californicus revealed be nocturnal predator summer but diurnal winter. In contrast, P. maximal daytime, E. stipulatus showed no clear described this should taken into account designing studies also field samplings, especially applying molecular techniques unveil trophic relationships.