The effectiveness of Bdellodes lapidaria (Kramer (Acari: Bdellidae) as a predator of Sminthurus viridis (L.) (Collembola: Sminthuridae) in north-west Tasmania

Population studies at 3 sites in north west Tasmania failed to indicate any significant predator‐prey relationship between the predatory pasture snout mite, Bdellodes lapidaria and the lucerne flea Sminthurus viridis or other surface‐active Collembola. These findings are at variance with results obtained from previous work in Western Australia and South Africa. The effect of climatic factors and an abundance of alternative prey species on the performance of B. lapidaria is discussed. Copyright © 1984, Wiley Blackwell. All rights reserved