Statistical modelling of sheath mite (Steneotarsonemus spinki) population dynamics in rice

Rice (Oryza sativa) is a staple food for a significant portion of the global population, making its cultivation of paramount importance for food security. However, the presence of various pests poses a continuous threat to rice production. This research paper focuses on Steneotarsonemus spinki, a microscopic mite that has gained attention for its potential impact on rice crop. The study aims to understand the population dynamics of Steneotarsonemus spinki. Six non-linear growth models viz., Prejneshu, Logistic, Monomolecular, Gompertz, Exponential and Sinusoidal has been used to study the population growth of sheath mites in rice crop, and the weather relationship with population dynamics of the sheath mite also evaluated. The highest mite population (14.37 mites cm⁻²) was detected during the ripening stage, and temperature and relative humidity had a positive correlation with the mite population. The non-linear growth models were fitted in various years and a comparative study was conducted for the sheath mite population in the rice cultivars and the model used in the study over the years reflected well the behaviour of sheath mite growth in rice crop.