Cyclamen mite

The cyclamen mite (Phytonemus pallidus), also known as the strawberry mite, is a tiny pest belonging to the family Tarsonemidae. Due to its microscopic size, it often goes undetected until significant damage to the plant tissue has already occurred, causing economic losses in both strawberry and ornamental plant production.

This mite is a major pest for strawberries but is equally problematic in commercial greenhouses. It affects a wide range of hosts, including cyclamens, begonias, African violets, and various nursery crops, thriving in environments with high humidity and moderate temperatures.

The life cycle of Phytonemus pallidus is rapid, often completing in under two weeks under optimal greenhouse conditions. The mites aggregate in the youngest, tightly folded leaves or in the crown of the plant. They pierce the plant tissue to suck out cell contents, which leads to the severe distortion of leaves and flower buds.

Symptoms of infestation include stunted growth, twisted and brittle foliage, and reduced flower production. In strawberries, the infestation leads to "crinkle" leaf symptoms, poor fruit set, and small, withered berries. The plant's inability to develop properly is the most reliable indicator of a mite presence.

Management strategies rely heavily on prevention. Growers should prioritize the use of certified mite-free planting stock. Chemical control using specific acaricides is essential, but it is challenging due to the pest's location deep within the plant crown. Maintaining proper sanitation and controlling the microclimate help reduce the impact of these mites.

• Use of clean, certified planting material is the primary defense.
• Hot water treatment of strawberry crowns (45°C for 10–15 mins) as a sanitation measure.
• Isolation of infested plants to prevent rapid spread across the nursery.
• Application of selective acaricides during the early stages of infestation.
• Rigid monitoring of the plant crown for signs of distortion or yellowing.