The lychee erinose mite, Aceria litchii, is a microscopic pest that affects lychee (Litchi chinensis) trees. These mites are so small that they are invisible to the naked eye and can only be detected through the galls, known as "erinea," they form on the leaves of infested trees.
Appearance: Aceria litchii is a tiny, worm-like mite with two pairs of legs.
Symptoms: Infested leaves develop reddish-brown, velvety growths on their undersides. These galls disrupt photosynthesis and can lead to reduced fruit production.
Host Range: Primarily affects lychee trees, but may also infest longan (Dimocarpus longan).
Originally from Asia, Aceria litchii has spread to several regions, including:
Australia
Brazil
Florida, USA
In Florida, the mite was first detected in 2018 and has since spread to multiple counties. In Brazil, infestations have led to up to 80% yield reduction in lychee crops.
Abamectin: An acaricide that has shown effectiveness against Aceria litchii in other regions. However, its efficacy may vary, and field trials are recommended.
Phytoseiid Mites: Predatory mites have been found in association with Aceria litchii in Brazil, suggesting potential for biological control. Further research is needed to confirm their effectiveness.
Pruning: Regularly remove and destroy infested leaves to reduce mite populations.
Monitoring: Regularly inspect trees for early signs of infestation, especially during the growing season.
If you suspect an infestation of Aceria litchii, contact your local agricultural department or extension service for guidance and support.
For more detailed information and resources on managing the lychee erinose mite, consider consulting the following publications:
Management Recommendations for the Lychee Erinose Mite (LEM)
The Lychee Erinose Mite Aceria litchii (Keifer) (Acari: Eriophyidae)
These resources provide comprehensive information on identification, symptoms, and management strategies for Aceria litchii.
| Aceria litchii |
The lychee erinose mite, Aceria litchii, is a microscopic pest that affects lychee (Litchi chinensis) trees. These mites are so small that they are invisible to the naked eye and can only be detected through the galls, known as "erinea," they form on the leaves of infested trees.
Appearance: Aceria litchii is a tiny, worm-like mite with two pairs of legs.
Symptoms: Infested leaves develop reddish-brown, velvety growths on their undersides. These galls disrupt photosynthesis and can lead to reduced fruit production.
Host Range: Primarily affects lychee trees, but may also infest longan (Dimocarpus longan).
Originally from Asia, Aceria litchii has spread to several regions, including:
Australia
Brazil
Florida, USA
In Florida, the mite was first detected in 2018 and has since spread to multiple counties. In Brazil, infestations have led to up to 80% yield reduction in lychee crops.
Abamectin: An acaricide that has shown effectiveness against Aceria litchii in other regions. However, its efficacy may vary, and field trials are recommended.
Phytoseiid Mites: Predatory mites have been found in association with Aceria litchii in Brazil, suggesting potential for biological control. Further research is needed to confirm their effectiveness.
Pruning: Regularly remove and destroy infested leaves to reduce mite populations.
Monitoring: Regularly inspect trees for early signs of infestation, especially during the growing season.
If you suspect an infestation of Aceria litchii, contact your local agricultural department or extension service for guidance and support.
For more detailed information and resources on managing the lychee erinose mite, consider consulting the following publications:
Management Recommendations for the Lychee Erinose Mite (LEM)
The Lychee Erinose Mite Aceria litchii (Keifer) (Acari: Eriophyidae)
These resources provide comprehensive information on identification, symptoms, and management strategies for Aceria litchii.
