Mites are a persistent problem in chilli cultivation, affecting the growth, health, and yield of plants. They primarily attack the leaves, flowers, and fruits, such as leaf curl, blistering on undersides, stunted growth, or misshapen fruits. causing visible damage that reduces market value.
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Two-spotted spider mite: This is the most common mite pest on chili peppers. They are tiny, yellow-green mites that feed on the undersides of leaves, causing them to become bronzed or yellow and eventually drop off.
- Broad mite: These mites are slightly larger than spider mites and are pale yellow to orange in color. They feed on the upper surface of leaves, causing them to become distorted and crinkled.
- Tarsonemid mite: These mites are very small and difficult to see with the naked eye. They feed on the growing tips of plants, causing them to become stunted and deformed.
Classification:
- Type: Pest
- Common Name: Mites
- Scientific name: Polyphagotarsonemus latus (Common Mites - yellow mite)
- Major parts affected in plants: Leaves, Growing tips, and flowers
- Major affected states: Maharashtra, Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka
Favorable factors for mites in chilli:
- Hot and dry temperatures: Many mite species thrive in warm, dry conditions with low humidity. These conditions are often found in tropical and subtropical regions, making chilli crops grown in such areas particularly vulnerable.
- Limited rainfall: Dry conditions stress the chilli plants, making them more susceptible to mite damage.
Symptoms of mites in chili:
- Curling and Distortion of Leaves
- Yellowing or Browning of Leaves
- Reduced Growth
- Mites on the Underside of Leaves
- Fruit Damage
Mites Damage in Chilli:
Uncontrolled mite infestations can result in:
- Up to 30-40% yield loss in severe cases.
- Reduced fruit size and quality, impacting market prices.
Control measures for Mites in Chilli crop:
Biological Control
Katyayani NO MITE (Sporothrix Fungorum) - Dose: 5 - 10 ml per Liter water
Chemical Control
- Katyayani KACIN ( abamectin 1.9% EC ) - Dose: 150 ml / acre
- Katyayani Mite Free (Fenpyroximate 5% SC) - Dose: 120 - 250 ml / acre
- KATYAYANI OZIL (SPIROMESIFEN 22.9 % SC) - Dose: 166 ml / acre
- Katyayani Ashwamedh (Diafenthiuron 50% WP) - Dose: 250 gm/ acre
| Product | Technical Name | Dosage |
|---|---|---|
| NO MITE | Sporothrix Fungorum | 5 - 10 ml per Liter water |
| KACIN | Abamectin 1.9% EC | 150 ml/Acre |
| Mite Free | Fenpyroximate 5% SC | 120 - 250 ml/Acre |
| OZIL | Spiromesifen 22.9% SC | 166 ml/Acre |
| Ashwamedh | Diafenthiuron 50% WP | 250 gm/Acre |
Frequently Asked Questions
Q. What are the common types of mites in chilli plants?
A. The common types are Two-spotted spider mite, Broad mite, and Tarsonemid mite.
Q. Which parts of the chilli plant are affected by mites?
A. Mites affect the leaves, growing tips, and flowers of the chilli plant.
Q. What are the symptoms of mites in chilli plants?
A. Symptoms include curling of leaves, yellowing or browning of leaves, reduced growth, and fruit damage.
Q. What are the favorable conditions for mites in chilli crops?
A. Hot and dry temperatures, low humidity, and limited rainfall favor mite infestation.
Q. What are the control measures for mites in chilli crops?
A. Biological control with Sporothrix Fungorum and chemical control with abamectin, Fenpyroximate, Spiromesifen, and Diafenthiuron.
For more information about pests and diseases, read our other blogs.
