Survey and Identification of Eriophyid Mites (Acari: Eriophyidae) on Stone Fruit Trees and Their Economic Importance

Abstract

Eriophyid mites (Acari: Eriophyidae) are minute, phytophagous arthropods that cause significant damage to stone fruit trees through feeding injury, gall formation, and transmission of plant disorders. The present study aimed to conduct a comprehensive survey and identification of eriophyid mites associated with major stone fruit orchards and to assess their economic importance. Field surveys were carried out in peach, plum, apricot, and cherry orchards, and infested plant tissues exhibiting leaf curling, russeting, blistering, and abnormal shoot growth were collected for mite extraction. Specimens were mounted on microscopic slides and identified based on key morphological features such as body segmentation, prodorsal shield pattern, gnathosomal structure, and empodial characteristics. The survey recorded multiple eriophyid species belonging to economically important genera associated with stone fruit crops. Variations in species distribution were observed across host plants and locations, indicating host specificity and ecological adaptation. Population density was found to be higher during warm and dry periods, with peak infestations coinciding with active vegetative growth stages of host plants. Damage assessment revealed that heavy infestations led to reduced leaf area, impaired photosynthetic activity, shoot deformation, and decline in fruit quality and yield. The study highlights the hidden but significant economic impact of eriophyid mites in stone fruit production systems, often underestimated due to their microscopic size and cryptic feeding habits. Overall, the findings emphasize the need for regular monitoring and early detection of eriophyid mite infestations. Integrated pest management strategies, including biological control and selective acaricide use, are recommended for effective management of these economically important pests in stone fruit agroecosystems.