Climate-based seasonal dynamics of the invasive red palm miteRaoiella indica

BACKGROUND Raoiella indicaHirst (Acari: Tenuipalpidae) is the most critical coconut and banana pest recently introduced in Brazil. Once the mite pests are introduced, it is essential to understand their dynamics in important crops under open-field climatic conditions to implement strategies for their management and determine the periods when species populations may increase in the field. Modelling tools have been used to determine the potential distribution of species and implications for the management of invasive species. Thus, our aim in this study was to determine the seasonal variation inR. indicaand the influence of the monthly climate using CLIMEX modelling. We adjusted the CLIMEX model forR. indicabased on distribution data, additional biological characteristics, and fluctuations in theR. indicapopulation in a commercial coconut plantation. RESULTS The model for the current climate shows a good match between the ecoclimatic index and the global distribution ofR. indica. The model results demonstrate that most states of Brazil and several regions worldwide include areas with highly suitable climatic conditions forR. indica.We observed variations in the density ofR. indicain commercial coconut crops, with the highest incidence occurring during the first months of the year. CONCLUSION Our results showed different alterations in seasonal suitability forR. indicathat may provide information for the implementation of methods for time management, such as strategies for sampling and control during periods with a high degree of suitability forR. indica.