Influence of light conditions on the dynamics of Tetranychus urticae and its control by the predatory mite Neoseiulus californicus

The increasing adoption of LED technology in agriculture raises important ecological questions regarding its impact on pest and natural enemy dynamics. This study investigates the impact of LED light exposure on the dynamics of the two-spotted spider mite (Tetranychus urticae) and its control by the predatory mite Neoseiulus californicus. Three light treatments were applied: natural light, 12h LED light and 12h dark, and continuous 24h LED light. Spider mite and predator densities were monitored twice a week. Spider mite densities were significantly affected by predator presence and light exposure. In the absence of predators, light exposure alone did not significantly influence spider mite densities. However, when predators were present, light regimes altered pest suppression dynamics. Under natural light and 12h LED exposure, predation effectively reduced spider mite densities over time. In contrast, continuous 24h LED exposure resulted in higher and more prolonged spider mite densities, suggesting that constant artificial lighting may disrupt predator efficiency and delay pest suppression. Predator densities also varied across light regimes, with continuous LED exposure leading to lower peak N. californicus densities than with 12h LED and natural light. Plant survival was unaffected by light in the absence of predators but was significantly lower under continuous light with predators than with natural light or 12-hour LED light, both with predators. These findings demonstrate that natural light and 12h LED conditions resulted in effective predator control of spider mites, whereas continuous LED exposure led to higher pest densities and lower predator efficiency, increasing the risk of pest outbreaks. These results highlight the need for careful management of artificial lighting in agricultural systems to ensure that LED use does not compromise biological control efficacy. Keywords: Tetranychus urticae; Neoseiulus californicus; biological control; LED light.

Grantor dc:publisher

Universidade Federal de Viçosa

Year dc:date.issued

2025

Author dc:creator

• Silva, Rodrigo Cardoso

Advisor dc:contributor.advisor

• Janssen, Arnoldus Rudolf Maria

• Tetranichus urticae - Efeitos da luz
• Neoseiulus californicus - Efeitos da luz
• Ácaros no controle biológico de pragas - Efeitos da luz

Statement dc:rights

• Acesso Aberto

Language dc:language.iso

eng

DOI

https://doi.org/10.47328/ufvbbt.2025.459

OAI identifier oai:identifier

oai:locus.ufv.br:123456789/34341