Bionomics of Cheyletus eruditus (Schrank) (Acarina: Cheyletidae), a predator of Lepidoglyphus destructor (Schrank) (Acarina: Glycyphagidae), at three constant temperatures
The duration and mortality of immature stages of the predatory mite Cheyletus eruditus (Schrank) were examined at 14, 18.5, 22, and 25 °C and 76% RH. Life tables and schedules of female eggs laid by each female per day were made from records of daily oviposition and adult mortality. The net reproductive rate (ratio of total female births in two successive generations) of C. eruditus varies from 40.7 at 18.5 °C to 74.4 at 25 °C and brackets the net reproductive rates of the prey Lepidoglyphus destructor (Schrank). Mean generation time and finite rates of increase (multiplication per female each day) varied from 52.2 days and 1.073 at 18.5 °C to 24.2 days and 1.194 at 25 °C. Maximum longevity was 107, 67, and 56 days at 18.5, 22, and 25 °C, respectively. Cheyletus eruditus also consumed first-instar larvae of the rusty grain beetle, Cryptolestes ferrugineus (Stephens), and first- and second-instar larvae of the flour mill beetle, Cryptolestes turcicus (Grouvelle).