Effect of type of prey on the life parameters of the soil predacious mite,Gamasiphis tylophagous (Mesostigmata : Ologamasidae), a predator of the citrus parasitic nematode, Tylenchulus semipenetrans (Tylenchida : Tylenchulidae)

Individuals of the predacious mite, Gamasiphis tylophagous El-Borolossy & E l-Banhawy, developed faster on the citrus parasitic nematode, Tylenchulus s emipenetrans Cobb., than on the acarid mite, Rhizoglyphus robini Claparede. Duration of the adult stage was insignificantly affected by type of prey, although reproduction significantly increased on the nematodes and decrease d on the acarid mites. The life table parameters were greatly affected by c hanging temperature. Below 30 degrees C, individuals developed slower and p roduced fewer eggs. Other parameters, such as sex ratio, seem not to be aff ected by temperature.