Spider Mite Infestations in Crops: Identification, Impact, and Prevention

• July 04 2023, by Agriplex India
• 4 min reading time

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Mites, the tiny arthropods often overlooked in the natural world, can pose a significant threat to agricultural crops. These minuscule pests can infest a wide variety of plants, causing considerable damage and economic losses to farmers. In this blog, we will explore mite attacks in crops, how to identify them, understand their effects on crops, and most importantly, explore effective prevention strategies. 

What is Spider Mite?

Spider mites, scientifically known as Tetranychidae, are a common type of plant-feeding mites belonging to the family Tetranychidae. They are arachnids, closely related to spiders and ticks, and are notorious pests in agricultural and garden settings. Spider mites are incredibly small, measuring only about 0.5 millimeters in size, making them barely visible to the naked eye.

Identifying Mite Infestations in Crops:

Detecting mite infestations in crops can be challenging due to their small size. However, some telltale signs can help farmers recognize their presence:

1. Leaf Damage: Mite feeding often leads to stippling or tiny yellowish spots on the upper surface of leaves. As the infestation progresses, leaves may become bronzed or discolored, ultimately leading to premature leaf drop.

2. Fine Webbing: Some mite species produce fine webbing, especially on the undersides of leaves. This webbing serves as a protective shelter for the mites and can be observed with close inspection.

3. Distorted Growth: Severe mite infestations can cause distortion in the growth of crops, including curling, cupping, or twisting of leaves.

Effects of Mite Infestations on Crops:

Mites are piercing-sucking insects, meaning they use specialized mouthparts to pierce plant cells and suck out the contents. As a result, the effects of mite infestations on crops can be far-reaching:

a) Reduced Photosynthesis: Mite feeding disrupts the chlorophyll-containing cells in leaves, reducing the plant's ability to perform photosynthesis. This impairs the crop's capacity to produce energy and results in stunted growth.

b) Decreased Yield: Mite-infested crops often experience a decrease in yield due to reduced fruit and flower production. Additionally, the quality of harvested fruits may be compromised.

c) Increased Vulnerability to Diseases: Mite-damaged crops become more susceptible to various diseases as the wounds created during feeding provide entry points for pathogens. 

Preventing Mite Attacks in Crops:

Prevention is the key to managing mite infestations in agricultural settings. Here are some effective prevention strategies

a) Regular Monitoring: Implement a monitoring system to regularly inspect crops for early signs of mite infestations. Early detection allows for timely action and reduces the chances of severe damage.

b) Crop Rotation: Practice crop rotation to disrupt mite populations. Mites often have host plant preferences, and rotating crops can break their life cycle and limit their buildup.

c) Natural Predators: Encourage the presence of natural predators like ladybugs, lacewings, and predatory mites in the agricultural ecosystem. These beneficial insects help keep mite populations in check.

d) Proper Irrigation: Maintain proper irrigation practices to avoid water-stressed plants, as mites tend to thrive under dry conditions.

e) Horticultural Oils and Insecticidal Soaps: When necessary, consider using horticultural oils or insecticidal soaps, which are less harmful to beneficial insects while effectively controlling mite populations.

Buy Best Miticide online at Agriplex

Best Products to control Spider mites are

Product Name	Technical Content	Dose
Syngenta Polytrin C 44 EC Insecticide	Polytrin C 44 EC	Apply at 400-600ml/acre for Foliar Spray
Coramandel Parryfos Inseciticide	Monocrotophus 36% SL	3-3.5 ml per liter of water for Foilar Spray
UPL Phoskil Insecticide	Monocrotophos 36% SL	3-3.5 ml per liter of water for Foilar Spray
Sumitomo Meothrin Insecticide	Fenpropathrin 30% EC	0.5-1 ml per liter of water for Foliar Spray
Multiplex Yodha Insecticide	Emamectin Benzoate 5% SG	0.5 g/litre of water for Foliar Spray
BASF Intrepid Insecticide	Chlorfenapyr 10% SC	300-400 ml/acre for Foliar Spray

 

Conclusion:

Mite attacks in crops can be devastating, leading to reduced yields and economic losses for farmers. By understanding the signs of infestations, being proactive in prevention, and adopting eco-friendly pest management practices, farmers can mitigate the negative impacts of mites on crops, promoting sustainable agriculture and healthier ecosystems.

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Agriculture Blogs Gallery Farming Mites Sucking Pest

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