Broad mite

Systematic position: The broad mite (Polyphagotarsonemus latus) belongs to the order Trombidiformes and the family Tarsonemidae. This microscopic pest is a major challenge in modern horticulture because of its minute size and the rapid manner in which it colonizes host plants.

Host crops: Broad mites are highly polyphagous and infest a wide variety of commercial crops. They are particularly destructive to greenhouse-grown vegetables such as peppers, cucumbers, tomatoes, and eggplants, as well as various ornamental species and strawberries, leading to significant economic losses if left untreated.

Biology and life cycle: The life cycle of this mite is exceptionally short, often completing in just under a week under warm and humid greenhouse conditions. Females lay translucent, sticky eggs on the underside of young leaves and near growing points. Due to this rapid generational turnover, populations can explode in a very short period of time.

Nature of damage: The mites feed on the underside of leaves and growing tips, injecting toxins into the plant tissue. Symptoms include stunted growth, twisted and brittle foliage, a oily or bronzed appearance on the leaf surface, and, in severe cases, the complete abortion of flower buds and the death of the apical meristem.

Control measures: Management requires an integrated approach to break the pest's life cycle. Key strategies include:

• Strict sanitation of greenhouse facilities between planting cycles.
• Monitoring for early symptoms, specifically at the growing tips.
• Application of specialized acaricides labeled for mite control.
• Utilization of biological control agents, such as predatory mites (e.g., Amblyseius swirskii).