Brown citrus rust mite

Tegolophus australis is an eriophyid mite that is a pest of a wide range of fruit crops, including apples, peaches, and grapes. It is also known to attack vegetables such as tomatoes, cucumbers, and peppers. The mite feeds on the undersides of leaves, causing them to develop red, blister-like spots. In severe cases, the leaf can become completely brown and die. The mite also produces a sticky substance called honeydew, which can attract ants and other pests.

Appearance:

Tegolophus australis is a small, oval-shaped mite that is about 0.05 millimeters in length. It is typically reddish-orange in color, but it can also be yellow or green. The mite has a long, slender body with eight legs.

How to identify Tegolophus australis:

• Look for red, blister-like spots on the undersides of leaves.
• Look for honeydew, a sticky substance that the mites produce.
• Examine the undersides of leaves with a magnifying glass.

How to manage Tegolophus australis:

• Monitor your crop regularly for signs of the mite.
• Prune off and destroy infected branches and leaves.
• Apply horticultural oil or insecticidal soap to control the mite population.
• Avoid overhead irrigation, as this can spread the mites.
• Grow mite-resistant cultivars, if available.

Prevention:

• Practice good sanitation by removing weed hosts and crop debris.
• Maintain a healthy crop by providing adequate watering and fertilization.
• Monitor your crop regularly for signs of the mite.
• Apply mite-resistant cultivars, if available.

Conclusion:

Tegolophus australis can be a significant pest of fruit and vegetable crops. By following these management tips, growers can help to control the mite population and protect their crops.