Abstract: A matrix population model is presented which describes the population dynamics and the return rate of parasitic Arrenurus larvae to the pond. This is a function of hosts' post-emergence life history and mating success. Three different aspects were simulated: a change in daily miteload, the impact of weather on hosts ovipostion probability and a combination of both.
It was found that a high abundance of larval water mites drastically reduces their return rate mites due to the high parasite-induced mortality of the hosts. Reduced oviposition probabilities of Coenagrion puella also decrease dramatically the number of mites detaching. The model may be applicable to other water-mite/host systems if the lifetable data of the host are known.