Bulb mite

Systematic position: The bulb mite (Rhizoglyphus) is classified within the order Acariformes and the family Acaridae. These are minute, translucent, soil-dwelling mites that are significant pests in both agricultural and horticultural production systems globally.

Host crops: This pest primarily infests bulbs, corms, and tubers. Major hosts include lilies, tulips, hyacinths, narcissi, and gladioli. They also represent a threat to vegetables such as onions, garlic, potatoes, and carrots, causing extensive damage both in the field and during storage.

Biology and life cycle: The life cycle involves egg, larva, protonymph, deutonymph (hypopus), tritonymph, and adult stages. The deutonymph stage is a specialized, non-feeding survival phase that can withstand harsh environments and attach to insects for dispersal. Development is favored by warm, humid conditions and high organic matter content in the soil.

Symptoms and damage: The mites enter the bulb through the root plate or natural fissures. They feed on plant tissues, causing the interior to become hollow and infested with secondary rot-causing bacteria and fungi. Symptoms include stunted leaf growth, yellowing, poor flowering, and complete disintegration of the bulb structure.

• Use only healthy, certified pathogen-free bulbs for planting.
• Apply preventative hot water treatment or acaricidal bulb dips.
• Ensure proper drainage to prevent excessive soil moisture.
• Implement strict crop rotation and removal of all crop debris.
• Monitor soil and use recommended soil-applied insecticides or acaricides if necessary.