The feeding and searching behaviour of two species of phytoseiid mites, Phytoseiulus persimilis Athias-Henriot and Amblyseius degenerans (Berlese), at different prey densities (Acarina: Phytoseiidae)

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Abstract
Detailed observations were made on various components of the predatory behavior of each instar of P. persimilis Athias-Henriot and A. degenerans (Berlese) in the laboratory. Many aspects of the feeding and searching behavior of these predators are dependent on the prey density to which they are exposed. Differences between the 2 spp. are described; P. persimilis has a greater ability to modify its behavior in relation to prey conditions than A. degenerans. Why P. persimilis has a lower capacity for prey and lower prey requirements for survival, development and reproduction than A. degenerans is explained; the nature of the functional and numerical responses to prey density of the 2 spp. is discussed.