Abstract
A predatory mite, Nidocheyletus colposi sp. nov (Cheyletidae), is described and illustrated from specimens collected in abandoned nests of Passer domesticus (L.) (Passeridae), in the state of México, Mexico. Identification was further supported by molecular characterization of the mitochondrial cytochrome c oxidase subunit I (COI) gene, representing the first molecular analysis for the genus Nidocheyletus. To determine the life table parameters and evaluate the potential as biological control agent for stored-product pests, the predatory mite was reared on two species of factitious prey: Carpoglyphus lactis (L.) (Carpoglyphidae) and Tyrophagus putrescentiae (Schrank) (Acaridae). Experiments were conducted at 25±1°C and 75% RH. Demographic analysis based on the age-stage life table revealed that while both diets supported individual development and survivorship, the intrinsic rate of increase (rm) was negative for the population sustained on T. putrescentiae (rm = -0.0069), signifying an unfeasible diet for population maintenance. The C. lactis diet supported positive population growth (rm = 0.0339); however, the demographic parameters suggest a limited potential for N. colposi as a biocontrol agent when compared with the higher efficacy reported for other cheyletids such as Cheyletus malaccensis Oudemans and C. eruditus (Schrank) (Cheyletidae), under similar conditions. Although results indicate limited biocontrol potential for N. colposi when sustained on astigmatid factitious prey, further evaluation using insect prey and assessments of its tolerance to varied temperatures and humidities are recommended to fully define its potential niche for specialized pest management.