Suitability of the soybean cyst nematode as prey to Protogamasellopsis zaheri (Acari: Mesostigmata: Rhodacaridae)

Author(s)

Rossini, L. A. C. J. ; Prado, T. J. ; Ferreira, R. J. ; Soares, P. L. M. ; de Moraes, G. J. ; Castilho, R. C.

• Document type: Journal article
• Source: BIOLOGICAL CONTROL; v. 170, p. 5-pg., 2022-04-15.

Abstract

The soybean cyst nematode (SCN) is one of the most harmful and difficult pest to control in soybean crops in Brazil and other countries. Predatory mites of the family Rhodacaridae (Mesostigmata) are commonly found below the soil surface, where SCN is also commonly found. The objective of this work was to evaluate the suitability of different SCN developmental stages to the rhodacarid Protogamasellopsis zaheri Abo-Shnaf, Castilho & Moraes and to study its life cycle when offered eggs and second stage immatures (J2) of that nematode as food, under laboratory condition. The results showed that the predator was able to prey on SCN eggs, J2 and adult females, and to complete its life cycle with eggs and J2 of that prey. SCN active adult females and cysts were not adequate food. Life table parameters showed no significand differences between the performance of the predator on SCN on eggs and J2; intrinsic rates of increase on those food types were about 0.204-0.209 female/ female/ day. The present study is the first to demonstrate the potential for predation of a species of predatory mite on SCN. Subsequent research is warranted to evaluate the efficiency of this predator in the control of this pest in semi-field and field conditions. (AU)

• FAPESP's process: 17/12004-1 - Edaphic mites: diversity, relationship with the microbiota and ecology in natural and cultivated areas in Brazil, with the preparation of databases and keys to identify selected groups
• Grantee: Raphael de Campos Castilho
• Support Opportunities: BIOTA-FAPESP Program - Thematic Grants