Population dynamics and biocontrol potential of Anystis baccarum in northern China

Abstract

The predatory mite Anystis baccarum is a promising biocontrol agent for major piercing-sucking pests in northern China, but its key typical occurrence pattern remains poorly understood. In this study, a 12‑month fixed‑site field survey was conducted in northern China to monitor the annual occurrence of A. baccarum. The further laboratory assays evaluated its developmental duration, predation efficiency, and prey preference using five prey species, including T. urticae, Carpoglyphus lactis, F. occidentalis, M. persicae, and B. tabaci. The results showed that A. baccarum exhibited a bimodal seasonal fluctuation pattern, completing two generations per year, with eggs over-wintering and summering in surface litter and topsoil. The mite showed broad predation capacity against piercingsucking pests, with clear stage preferences. A. baccarum preferred nymphs of T. urticae, larvae of F. occidentalis, onedayold nymphs of M. persicae, adults of B. tabaci and adults of C. lactis. Predation efficiency varied significantly among prey stages, with the highest consumption recorded on C. lactis adults (67.1 individuals/24 h) and the lowest on B. tabaci nymphs (0.7 individuals/24 h). When all five prey species were present simultaneously, the predation preference of A. baccarum was C. lactis > T. urticae > M. persicae > F. occidentalis > B. tabaci. Notably, C. lactis supported the longest adult longevity and optimal population fitness of A. baccarum, making it a suitable alternative prey for mass rearing. These findings provided basic knowledge of A. baccarum in northern China and key parameters for the mass production and field application as a native natural enemy.