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MITES
Foliage damage caused by feeding of MITES.
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| Species |
Eotetranychus spp.
Oligonychus spp.
Tetranychus spp. |
| Common Hosts: |
Hardwoods
Softwoods
Nursery stock in beds especially prone to mite infestations. |
Description |
Adult -- approximately 0.5 mm long; oval-shaped, wingless body; red, green, or white in color, 4 pairs of legs (not an insect).
Nymph -- similar to adult, 3 pairs of legs. |
Importance |
Hot, dry weather favors the buildup of mite populations. Excessive use of insecticides for other problems is conducive to a mite problem. Severe infestations may place an undue stress on infested trees. |
Signs
of Infestation |
Foliage discoloration: chlorotic stippling followed by yellowing or bronzing. Silk webbing and very small grayish-white skins on infested foliage. Hold sheet of white paper beneath suspected leaves and strike leaves sharply. Mites will appear to be small dark, moving spots. |
Control |
- Minimize insecticide use whenever possible, especially in the nursery setting. Use an approved miticide when necessary. Inspect trees regularly during late summer, droughty weather.
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Bulletin No. 196-A | Printed October, 1983 | Contact the
Forest Health Section 
