Biology of false spider mite, Raoiella macfarlanei on Syzygium cumini and Syzygium jambos: A comparative study of development, behavior, and impact on host plants

Abstract

A study investigated the traits and life cycle of the pest mite Raoiella macfarlanei on two host plants, Syzygium cumini and Syzygium jambos, at two temperatures. Results revealed distinct developmental patterns: females and males matured faster on S. cumini at both 30°C (21.70 and 18.93 days) and room temperature (26.88 and 25.71 days) compared to S. jambos (30°C: 24.16 and 21.04 days; room temperature: 29.98 and 28.25 days). Additionally, mated females had shorter preoviposition and oviposition periods on S. cumini at room temperature (4.47 and 35 days) and 30°C (3.92 and 27.10 days) than on S. jambos (5.53 and 35.40 days at room temperature; 4.16 and 28.00 days at 30°C). Net Reproductive Rate and Mean Generation Time were higher on S. jambos (room temperature: 22.11 and 53.39; 30°C: 19.55 and 41.50) compared to S. cumini (room temperature: 21.00 and 48.80: 30°C: 18.30 and 38.20). These findings deepen our understanding of R. macfarlanei's biology and life cycle in different environments, offering insights into its impact on agricultural ecosystems.