Population dynamics of<i> Floracarus perrepae </i>and a predatory mite in a screenhouse environment

This research investigated observations of an increase in a predatory mite within galls for a screenhouse mass rearing colony. The survey consisted of counted the galls on 5 haphazardly selected plants and then dissecting 5 galls for each plant. The number of <i>Floracarus perrepae</i> biological control mites and the number of predatory mites were recorded for each gall. The survey was intended to run a full early starting 9/29/2021, but it concluded early in July 2022 when the screenhouse became too hot for a colony to be maintained there. Predatory mite presence is correlated with a reduction in <i>F. perrepae </i>numbers. Sequenced samples of predatory mite from the colony and indicated that the predatory mite is <i>Amblyseius rematavensis</i>.Partially funded by the USDA through the Comprehensive Everglades Restoration Plan (CERP) (USDA agreement 58-6032-1-001), through the Southwest Florida Water Management District (USDA agreement 58-6032-3-003).