Predicting the impact of climate change on the potential geographical distribution and growth index of mirid predator, Nesidiocoris tenuis (reuter) (Heteroptera: Miridae) using CLIMEX

Nesidiocoris tenuis (Reuter) originated in tropical regions but has distended its range and is now common around the world. Even though, it is a zoophytophagous both adults and nymphs predate upon a broad range of insect hosts. It makes a significant contribution in tomato IPM program by feeding on whiteflies, spider mites, caterpillars and leaf miners. In the present study, we employed CLIMEX 4.0 software to predict and assess the effect of environmental factors on the global distribution of N. tenuis by using the ‘Compare Locations’ function. Based on the CLIMEX prediction, a large part of Eastern Europe, major parts of South America, Central and Southern Africa, South Asia and Coastal Australia were highly suitable for the long-term survival of N. tenuis. The model output on global prediction maps indicates that cold and dry stress may restrict N. tenuis distribution in various places. However, cold stress appears to be the major limiting factor. This study highlighted an efficient way to construct a habitat suitability map for N. tenuis, potentially useful in the release of target species in new locations. The model may also be used to determine the release time of N. tenuis based on the favourable growth index period.