Mites are tiny, eight-legged creatures that can be major pests for chili crops. They pierce the leaves and stems of the plants, sucking out sap and causing damage that can affect the yield and quality of the chilies.broad mites are pale yellow to orange, larval mites and tarsonemid mites are difficult to see due to their small size. Look for slow movement on the leaf surface. Look for signs of their feeding, such as stippling, discoloration (bronzing, yellowing), leaf curl, blistering on undersides, stunted growth, or misshapen fruits.
- 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
- 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.
- Poor ventilation: Inadequate air circulation within the crop canopy creates stagnant air, which mites prefer. Densely planted crops or greenhouses with limited airflow can exacerbate the problem.
- Limited rainfall: Dry conditions stress the chilli plants, making them more susceptible to mite damage. Additionally, infrequent rain reduces natural mite predators like predatory mites and lacewings.
- Dusty conditions: Dust particles can provide mites with shelter and protection from natural enemies.
Symptoms of mites in chili:
- Discoloration: Leaves may become bronzed, yellowed, or stippled due to sap-sucking activity.
- Leaf curl: Leaves may curl upwards or downwards, often along the edges.
- Blistering: Tiny blisters may appear on the undersides of leaves, particularly with broad mites.
- Stunted growth: Plants may exhibit reduced growth, smaller leaves, and fewer flowers and fruits.
- Leaf drop: In severe cases, leaves may become dry and drop prematurely.
Control measures for Mites in Chilli crop:
|
Products |
Technical Names |
dosage |
| abamectin 1.9 ec |
150 ml for 200 liters of water per acre. |
|
| fenpyroximate 5 ec |
150-200 ml per acre |
|
| Spiromesifen 22.9% SC |
150-200 ml/acre |
|
| Diafenthiuron 50 % WP |
250 g / acre |
Frequently Asked Questions
Q. What are chilli mites?
A. Chilli mites are tiny pests that damage plants by sucking sap, leading to reduced yields and poor-quality chilies.
Q. What causes mites on chilli plants?
A. Mites on chilli plants thrive in hot, dry conditions with low humidity, often exacerbated by poor ventilation and dust.
Q. What are the common symptoms of mites in chilli crops?
A. Mites symptoms in chilli include bronzed leaves, stunted growth, leaf curling, and premature leaf drop.
Q. How do I identify chili mite symptoms?
A. Look for chili mite symptoms such as discoloration, stippling on leaves, blistering, and distorted growth in new shoots.
Q. Can mites affect chili yield?
A. Yes, mites can significantly affect chilli yield by stunting plant growth and reducing the quality and quantity of fruits.
