Cassava green mite

Taxonomic position: Mononychellus progresivus belongs to the order Acariformes and the family Tetranychidae (spider mites). This species is recognized as a significant agricultural pest due to its specialized feeding habits and ability to thrive in tropical climates.

Affected crops: The primary host plant for this mite is cassava (Manihot esculenta). It is a major limiting factor in cassava production, especially in regions where the mite has become established, causing substantial losses in both quality and quantity of the harvest.

Biology and life cycle: The life cycle of Mononychellus progresivus passes through egg, larva, protonymph, deutonymph, and adult stages. The speed of development is highly dependent on ambient temperature, with higher temperatures leading to shorter life cycles and explosive population growth during dry seasons.

Damage and harm: The mites feed primarily on the apical leaves and buds of the plants. Their piercing-sucking mouthparts cause chlorosis, mosaic-like symptoms, and severe leaf curling. Heavy infestations lead to stunted growth and significant reductions in the photosynthetic capacity of the plants.

Control measures: Managing this pest requires an integrated approach to maintain population levels below economic injury thresholds:

• Deployment of resistant or tolerant cassava cultivars.
• Application of selective acaricides during peak infestation periods.
• Implementation of biological control programs using predatory mites, such as those from the Phytoseiidae family.
• Ensuring proper field hygiene and quarantine of planting materials.