Bulb mite

The bulb mite (Caloglyphus) belongs to the order Sarcoptiformes and the family Acaridae. These minute pests are widespread soil-dwelling organisms that feed on decaying plant matter but frequently transition to attacking healthy, live plant tissues under favorable conditions, particularly in high-moisture environments.

The host range of Caloglyphus is extensive, primarily targeting bulbous crops such as onions, garlic, tulips, lilies, and hyacinths. Furthermore, they are notorious for infesting vegetable seedlings in greenhouses and causing significant economic losses in stored root vegetables and bulbs during winter storage.

The life cycle of this mite is remarkably efficient. It progresses rapidly through egg, larval, and nymphal stages. A unique biological feature of Caloglyphus is the development of a 'hypopus' stage—a dormant, highly resistant form that allows the mite to survive harsh environments, lack of food, and certain chemical treatments until better conditions arise.

Damage caused by these mites is often insidious. They penetrate the basal plate of bulbs, leading to the destruction of the root system and causing the bulb to rot from the inside out. Affected plants exhibit yellowing foliage, stunted growth, and eventually wilting. Secondary fungal infections often follow, masking the presence of the mites.

• Implement strict crop rotation schedules to break the mite life cycle in the soil.
• Ensure adequate drainage in planting areas to maintain soil moisture at moderate levels.
• Sort harvested bulbs thoroughly, removing any damaged or decaying specimens before storage.
• Utilize hot water treatment or authorized acaricides for bulbs before planting.
• Maintain low temperature and high ventilation in storage facilities to discourage mite reproduction.