Abstract

Sphingomyelin synthase (SMS) is a key enzyme in sphingolipid metabolism that catalyzes the synthesis of sphingomyelin (SM). The potential roles of SMS involved in the egg development and female fecundity on the tremendous pest mite Panonychus citri , however, remain unknown. In this study, we determined the function of sphingomyelin synthase gene in P. citri across different developmental stages. We silenced the PcSMS in adult females of P. citri via feeding on detached citrus leaves that absorbed dsRNAs. The survival rates and lifespan, along with the expressions of ROS and apoptosis genes were significantly changed. Additionally, fecundity and oviposition periods of P. citri were shortened. The expression levels of vitellogenin and its receptor genes were downregulated. Knockdown of PcSMS also affected egg hatching, resulting in developmental delays and egg lethal phenotypes. Our findings shed light on the metabolism underlying the biological functions of egg development and adult females fecundity of P. citri and render lipid metabolism the attractive target for biopesticide to control citrus spider mite.