Narcissus bulb mite

Taxonomic position: Steneotarsonemus laticeps is a member of the order Acariformes and the family Tarsonemidae. These are microscopic mites characterized by their specialized feeding habits, residing and reproducing deep within the structures of their host plants.

Host plants: This pest primarily affects plants within the Amaryllidaceae family. It is most notorious for damaging narcissus (daffodil) bulbs, though it can also colonize other decorative bulbs like amaryllis and hippeastrum, especially in indoor gardening or storage facilities.

Biology and life cycle: The lifecycle of Steneotarsonemus laticeps is entirely restricted to the interior of the bulb. The mites thrive in high humidity and temperatures ranging from 15°C to 20°C. Their rapid reproductive cycle allows populations to build up quickly, causing significant damage from within before the symptoms become externally visible.

Damage and severity: Mite feeding activity causes necrotic lesions, brown streaks, and structural deformation of the scales. In advanced infestations, the growth point of the bulb may be destroyed, leading to stunted or distorted foliage, poor flower production, or total rotting of the bulb after planting.

Control measures: Management strategies emphasize preventive measures, such as inspecting bulbs before storage and disposing of any showing signs of damage. Effective control includes hot water treatment of the bulbs at specific temperatures to kill the mites and the use of targeted acaricides during the growing season to prevent further spread.

• Selecting disease-free planting material.
• Hot water treatment for infested bulb stocks.
• Maintaining low temperatures in storage areas.
• Chemical control using systemic acaricides.