Transgenerational sublethal effects of spiromesifen on Tetranychus urticae (Acari: Tetranychidae) and on its phytoseiid predator Neoseiulus californicus (Acari: Phytoseiidae)

One of the farmers' significant challenges is controlling mites and preventing their damage, especially the two spotted spider mite Tetranychus urticae. Meanwhile, the insecticides introduced for controlling T. urticae need to be investigated for direct and indirect effects. This study investigated the low concentrations (LC10 and LC30) impacts of spiromesifen on the life table parameters of T. urticae and its natural enemy, Neoseiulus californicus. The results indicate that spiromesifen caused significant effects on all parameters of the T. urticae life table through successive generations. The insecticide also had significant effects on N. californicus life table parameters. Therefore, spiromesifen was effective against successive generations of T. urticae, but we caution against its use under incidence of N. californicus.