Temperature‐dependent developmental model of Neoseiulus californicus (McGregor) (Acari,Phytoseiidae)

The developmental time and survival of immature stages of Neoseiulus californicus were studied at nine constant temperatures (12, 16, 24, 24, 28 32, 36, 38 and 40°C), 60–70% RH, and a photoperiod of 16 : 8 (L : D) h. The total mortality of immature N. californicus was lowest at 24°C (4.5%) and highest at 38°C (15.2%). The total developmental time decreased with increasing temperature between 12°C (18.38 days) and 32°C (2.98 days), and increased beyond 32°C. The relationship between the developmental rate and temperature was fitted by five nonlinear developmental rate models (Logan 6, Lactin 1, 2 and Briere 1, 2). The nonlinear shape of temperature development was best described by the Lactin 1 model (r² = 0.98). The developmental variation of each stage was well described by the three‐parameter Weibull distribution model (r² = 0.91–0.93). The temperature‐dependent developmental models of N. californicus developed in this study could be used to determine optimal temperature conditions for its mass rearing, to predict its seasonal population dynamics in fruit tree orchards or greenhouse crops, or to develop a population dynamics model of N. californicus.