Reproductive performance of the generalist predator Hypoaspis aculeifer (Acari : Gamasida) when foraging on different invertebrate prey

Heckmann, L. H., Ruf, A., Nienstedt, K. M. and Krogh, P. H. (2007) Reproductive performance of the generalist predator Hypoaspis aculeifer (Acari : Gamasida) when foraging on different invertebrate prey. Applied Soil Ecology, 36 (2-3). pp. 130-135. ISSN 0929-1393 doi: 10.1016/j.apsoil.2007.01.002

Abstract/Summary

In this study, we assessed the influence of prey quality and prey biomass during a standardized 3-week test on adult survival and reproductive output of the predatory mite Hypoaspis aculeifer when fed one of six different diets: springtails (Folsomia candida and Folsomia fimetaria), a storage mite (Caloglyphus cf. michaeli), an oligochaete (Enchytraeus crypticus), a nematode (Turbatrix silusiae), and a 1:1:1 mix of F. candida:F.fimetaria:E. crypticus. Our results revealed that a single prey species may be nutritionally sufficient for a 3-week period, as H. aculeifer performed equally well, or better, on a diet based on a 1:1:1 mix of F. candida:F. fimetaria:E. crypticus. However, when fed C. cf. michaeli, H. aculeifer had a poor reproductive output (< 200 juveniles) and a reduced survival (60-70%). Thus, investigators should validate their choice of prey prior to testing H. aculeifer performance during toxicant exposure. (c) 2007 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.