Population growth parameters of the two-spotted spider mite, Tetranychus urticae, on three peach varieties, in Iran

The two-spotted spider mite (TSSM), Tetranychus urticae Koch is one of the most important pests of peach trees in Iran. The reproduction, survival, and life table parameters of TSSM on three peach cultivars: Redtap, G.H.Hale and Kardi, were studied at 27 +/- 1 °C, 50 +/- 10 % RH and a photoperiod of 12L:12D. The average developmental time from egg to female adult on the cultivars was 10.3 +/- 0.303, 9.431 +/- 0.176 and 9.9 +/- 0.166, respectively. Intrinsic rates of increase (rm) were 0.07 +/- 0.02, 0.21 +/- 0.01 and 0.18 +/- 0.008, respectively. Based on some biological and demographic parameters of T. urticae on the different peach varieties, along with the significant differences between Redtap and the other 2 varieties, it was concluded that the Redtap variety is not as suitable a host as the other two varieties.