The southern red mite (Oligonychus ilicis) also called the coffee red mite, produces several generations per year. The adult female is 0.38 mm in length with aa rotund-elliptical body. Oligonychus ilicis are reddish brown and darker than most red spider mites, while the frontal area is more translucent.
Damage
Retarded plant growth
O. iliciss feeds primarily on foliage of woody ornamental plants. This initial damage will appear as stippling on the leaves. The destruction of the cells results in reduced photosynthesis, plant growth reduction and defoliation. If the infestation occurs when the plants are young and expanding, leaves may be distorted.
Natural Enemies
There are specific natural enemies for different species of mites.
For more information contact your local BioBee field agent.
