How can I recognize a tick on a strawberry? - briefly
Look for tiny, oval, brown or black spots that are slightly raised and glossy, often attached to the skin or embedded in the flesh. A moving speck visible when the berry is gently shaken or examined under magnification confirms the presence of a tick.
How can I recognize a tick on a strawberry? - in detail
Identifying a tick on a strawberry requires careful visual inspection and tactile assessment.
First, examine the fruit under bright, natural light. A tick appears as a small, circular or oval depression, often 1–3 mm in diameter. The area may be slightly darker than the surrounding flesh, ranging from light brown to black, and may exhibit a glossy sheen due to moisture loss.
Second, run a fingertip gently over the surface. A tick feels firmer than the surrounding soft tissue, creating a subtle raised rim around the depression. The firmness contrasts with the typical smooth, yielding texture of healthy berry skin.
Third, use a magnifying glass (10×–20×) to confirm details. Under magnification, the tick’s edges are well‑defined, and the interior may show a dry, crumbly core if the tick is mature. Look for a lack of fungal mycelium or white mold, which would indicate rot rather than a tick.
Fourth, compare suspected ticks with common strawberry defects:
- Bruise: irregular shape, reddish‑purple coloration, soft to the touch.
- Mold: fuzzy or powdery surface, white, gray, or greenish hues, often spreading outward.
- Insect feeding damage: ragged edges, chewed tissue, sometimes accompanied by visible insects.
A tick is distinct in its uniform, circular outline, dry interior, and localized firmness.
Finally, assess the fruit’s overall condition. If multiple ticks are present or if the surrounding area shows signs of decay, discard the berry to prevent contamination of the remaining produce. Regularly inspect strawberries at purchase and during storage, keeping them in a cool, dry environment to minimize tick development.