Applied Entomology and Zoology (2011) 46, 265-269

Xue Zheng and Daochao Jin (2011)
Effect of long-term exposure to simulated acid rain on the development and reproduction of the predatory mite, Euseius nicholsi (Ehara et Lee) (Acari: Phytoseiidae)
Applied Entomology and Zoology 46 (2), 265-269
Abstract: The effects of simulated acid rain on the development and reproduction of E. nicholsi, an important natural enemy of many species of pest mites in China, were studied in the laboratory. The life history parameters of E. nicholsi were investigated after long-term (about 8 generations) exposure to various levels of simulated acid rain (pH 2.0, 3.0, 4.0, and 5.6). The results showed that the acid rain had negative effects on some basic parameters of the life history of the E. nicholsi population indirectly. The whole development durations with pH 3.0-5.6 treatments were longer and the duration with pH 2.0 treatment was shorter than with deionized water treatments (control). Adult longevity and oviposition duration were notably shortened, and female fecundity was decreased by an increase in acidity. The net reproductive rate (R ₀) of the populations treated with acid rain was less than that of the control populations and gradually decreased with an increase in acidity; however, the values of the intrinsic rate of increase (r) were not affected significantly by acid rain, and inhibitory effects of acid rain on the population growth of E. nicholsi were not recognized.
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Link to article at publishers website
Database assignments for author(s): Dao-Chao Jin

Research topic(s) for pests/diseases/weeds:
biocontrol - natural enemies
Research topic(s) for beneficials or antagonists:
environment/habitat manipulation

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Pest and/or beneficial records:

Beneficial	Pest/Disease/Weed	Crop/Product	Country	Quarant.
Euseius nicholsi (predator)