Selection of suitable predatory mites against, Panonychus citri (McGregor) (Acari: Tetranychidae) using relative control potential metrics and functional response

Abstract Background Selection of suitable predators for the control spider mite, Panonychus citri is always a challenge due to lack their reliable predicted efficacy. In this laboratory study, biological potential Neoseiulus californicus , N. cucumeris and Scapulaseius newsami, against P. using “Relative Control Potential” (RCP) metric compare efficacies was evaluated. The functional response type determined at different prey densities (after 24 h). Results II responses were observed from all tested feeding on 3 life stages except cucumeris, which fed only eggs. All predatory mites preferred eggs with higher attack rate (1.397) in followed by (1.238) S. newsami (0.975). Handling time also lower than other mites, trend as: > adults immature stages; adults, while adults. integration greenhouse abundance fecundity (%) data resulted RCP predators. Conclusion selected as most mite maximum reproduction. used first time, gave almost similar results compared N . but