Tarsonemid mite

Systematic position: The tarsonemid mite (lat. Tarsonemus floricola) belongs to the order Acariformes and the family Tarsonemidae. These are microscopic mites that are often overlooked due to their tiny size and their tendency to hide in protected areas of the plant, such as leaf axils or tight flower buds.

Host plants: This mite is a known polyphage, meaning it attacks a wide variety of plant species. It is particularly problematic in ornamental plants, including orchids and begonias, as well as in strawberry cultivation. Greenhouse crops are the most vulnerable due to the controlled environment which provides ideal conditions for their development.

Biology and life cycle: The life cycle of Tarsonemus floricola is relatively short, allowing for multiple generations in a single season. Eggs are laid on tender plant tissues. Under favorable conditions, such as temperatures between 20–25°C and moderate to high humidity, the population can expand rapidly, leading to heavy infestations if not monitored closely.

Character of damage: These mites feed by piercing the plant cells and sucking the sap. This damage is reflected in the curling, twisting, and dwarfing of leaves. Growers often notice the presence of mites only after the symptoms of severe growth retardation and the deformation of flowers become apparent, which significantly reduces the commercial quality of the plants.

Control measures: Integrated pest management is crucial for control. Cultural practices include maintaining proper plant hygiene and regulating humidity levels to prevent outbreaks. In cases of high infestation, the application of targeted acaricides is necessary. It is recommended to rotate chemical products with different modes of action to prevent the development of pesticide resistance in the mite populations.