The effect of light on the oviposition rhythm of the tea red spider mite Oligonychus coffeae (Nietn.)

The daily oviposition rhythm of the tea red spider mite, Oligonychus coffeae (Nietn.) under laboratory and field conditions is described. In the laboratory, the oviposition rate was steady under constant light or darkness, but under alternating light and darkness (LD 12:12 and 8:16) showed peaks soon after the change from light to darkness and vice versa. Under field conditions, oviposition peaks occurred at dawn and at dusk when there is a rapid change in light intensity.