Effects of visible light wavelength on development and demographic parameters of Phytoseiulus persimilis (Acari: Phytoseiidae)

Abstract

Environmental factors, such as the wavelength of light, can have a crucial impact on mite development. Little is, however, known about the effect of visible light quality on demographic parameters of Phytoseiidae. We therefore conducted series of laboratory experiments in which development and reproduction of Phytoseiulus persimilis Athias-Henriot feeding on Tetranychus urticae Koch eggs was investigated under various light conditions (white, blue, green, yellow, and red light). The results revealed that different light wavelengths influenced each developmental stage, with the green light conditions promoting longest pre-adult development. The longevity of both male and female mites varied significantly across light wavelengths, with the shortest lifespan observed under red light. The highest mean total fecundity, 16 eggs per female, was observed under white light conditions. Population parameters (R0, r, and λ) were also highest under white light and decreased with increasing light wavelength. These findings suggest that light wavelength plays a significant role in development, survival, and reproduction of the predatory mite, with white light being identified as providing the best light conditions for commercial production of P. persimilis.