Life table parameters of <i>Phytonemus pallidus fragariae</i> Zimmerman (Acari: Tarsonemidae) on different strawberry cultivars: A comparative study

Phytonemus pallidus fragariae Zimmerman (Trombidiformes: Tarsonemidae) is an important pest in strawberry cultivation worldwide, causing considerable economic losses with yield reductions ranging from 22 to 100%. This study investigated the population parameters of P. p. fragariae on three commercially important strawberry cultivars: Albion, Monterey, and San Andreas, using an age-stage, two-sex life table approach. All experimental procedures were conducted under the controlled conditions of 25 +/- 2 degrees C, 65 +/- 5% RH, and a 16:8 h (light: dark) photoperiod. The results showed that some developmental times and life table parameters of P. p. fragariae differed among the cultivars. Total pre-adult duration was longest on Albion (8.23 days), followed by Monterey (7.65 days) and San Andreas (7.10 days). Fecundity was highest on Albion (11.85 eggs/female), while no differences were observed in net reproductive rate, intrinsic rate of increase, and finite rate of increase among cultivars. However, the mean generation time was longest on Albion (13.85 days) and shortest on San Andreas (12.10 days). The findings indicate that the Albion cultivar is more suitable for development and reproduction. P. p. fragariae than the Monterey and San Andreas cultivars. This study provides initial insights into the life table parameters of P. p. fragariae on specific strawberry cultivars, enhancing our understanding of pest-host interactions. The data generated helps develop more effective integrated pest management (IPM) strategies targeting this pest in strawberry production systems.