STUDY ON VARIATION OF SCHIZOTETRANYCHUS CELARIUS (BANKS) : II. COMPARISON OF MODE OF LIFE BETWEEN TWO SYMPATRIC FORMS (ACARINA : TETRANYCHIDAE)

Abstract

Experimental studies were conducted to determine if the two sympatric populations (called long seta form and medium seta form) of Schizotetranychus celarius (BANKS) which made different nest in size were intraspecific variation or sibling species. Morphological differences were clearly recognized in the length of two pairs of setae and they related to the differences of nesting habit. Because the life history parameters in these two forms were similar, there was no evidence that the life history correlated to these morphological and ecological differences. On the other hand, there was clear post-mating reproductive isolation between two forms. Though some other problems remained, it was thought that these results suggested these two forms are considered sibling species.