What is a strawberry mite? - briefly
The strawberry mite (Paraleius lepidus) is a microscopic eriophyid arachnid that feeds on pollen and plant tissue of strawberry crops, leading to leaf discoloration and yield loss. It is characterized by an elongated body and specialized feeding stylets.
What is a strawberry mite? - in detail
The strawberry mite (Phyllocoptes fructiphilus) is an eriophyid arthropod that colonises strawberry plants (Fragaria spp.). Adult individuals measure 0.15–0.20 mm, possess elongated, worm‑like bodies, and lack distinct segmentation. Their mouthparts are stylet‑type, adapted for piercing plant cells and extracting sap.
Feeding occurs primarily on the undersides of leaves, where the mite inserts its stylet into epidermal cells. This activity disrupts chlorophyll synthesis, causing a characteristic bronzing or stippling of foliage. Severe infestations lead to leaf curling, premature leaf drop, and reduced photosynthetic capacity, which in turn diminishes fruit yield and quality.
The life cycle comprises egg, larva (two active stages), and adult. Eggs are deposited on leaf surfaces and hatch within 3–5 days under optimal temperatures (20–25 °C). Development from egg to adult takes approximately 7–10 days, allowing up to 10 generations per growing season in warm climates. Overwintering occurs as dormant eggs or adult females sheltered in leaf litter.
Geographic distribution mirrors major strawberry production zones: North America, Europe, and parts of Asia. The mite spreads through wind‑borne dispersal of mobile stages and via contaminated planting material. Infested plants serve as reservoirs, facilitating rapid local buildup.
Detection relies on visual inspection of leaf undersides using a hand lens (30× magnification). Typical signs include:
- Bronze‑colored stippling
- Curling or rolling of leaf margins
- Presence of fine webbing near feeding sites
Laboratory confirmation involves mounting specimens on microscope slides and identifying the distinctive cheliceral and body morphology.
Management integrates cultural, biological, and chemical measures:
- Cultural: Rotate crops with non‑host species, remove plant debris, and maintain adequate spacing to improve air circulation.
- Biological: Encourage predatory mites (e.g., Phytoseiulus persimilis) and entomopathogenic fungi that attack eriophyids.
- Chemical: Apply miticides registered for eriophyid control, following label recommendations and resistance‑management guidelines.
Monitoring programs employ sticky traps and regular scouting to assess population thresholds. Early intervention, before leaf damage becomes extensive, preserves plant vigor and protects fruit production.