Bioinsecticide-Predator Interactions: Azadirachtin Behavioral and Reproductive Impairment of the Coconut Mite Predator Neoseiulus baraki

摘要: Synthetic pesticide use has been the dominant form of pest control since 1940s. However, biopesticides are emerging as sustainable alternatives, with prevailing in organic agricultural production systems. Foremost among botanical is limonoid azadirachtin, whose perceived environmental safety come under debate and scrutiny recent years. Coconut production, particularly coconut one systems which azadirachtin used a primary method for management invasive mite, Aceria guerreronis Keifer (Acari: Eriophyidae). The this mite species also greatly benefits from predation by Neoseiulus baraki (Athias-Henriot) Phytoseiidae). Here, we assessed potential behavioral impacts on predator, N. baraki. We explored effects biopesticide overall predator activity, female searching time, mating behavior fecundity. Azadirachtin impairs activity reducing it to nearly half; however, was not affected. In contrast, compromised exposure when male predators were exposed biopesticide. Consequently, fecundity furthering doubts about its selectivity towards biological agents.