Prey consumption capacity and functional response of Phytoseiulus persimilis (Acari: Phytoseiidae) feeding on Tetranychus urticae (Acari: Tetranychidae) on different cotton varieties

This study aimed to determine the predatory performance of Phytoseiulus persimilis Athias-Henriot (Acari: Phytoseiidae) against Tetranychus urticae Koch Tetranychidae) on six different cotton varieties (Gloria, Lima, Carla, DP-396, Edessa, ST-468) with leaf characteristics. The eggs and protonymph stages prey densities (5, 10, 20, 40, 80 160) were separately offered a single female predator its predation oviposition rates for 24h. results showed that P. exhibited Type II functional response both egg protonymphal T. irrespective varieties. highest attack (α) 0.045 h<sup>- </sup>and 0.085 h<sup>-</sup> when fed protonymphs Gloria (low trichome density) variety, respectively. There was great similarity between handling times (Th) feeding among No significant difference found in terms food consumption In contrast, consumptions all (except significantly higher lower density (Gloria Lima) compared (Edessa ST-468). current plant affected capacity protonymphs. However, more studies are needed address issue from wider perspective, especially observe biological control potential under field conditions.