Overview
The arthropod pest Tetranychus mcdanieli, also known as the McDaniel spider mite, is a common pest to apple and pear trees. The McDaniel spider mite feeds by sucking out the cell contents, which gives the leaves a finely stippled appearance. In instances of heavy infestation, severe bronzing of foliage and premature defoliation will occur, with consequences on the yield and quality of the fruits.
Main description
The McDaniel spider mite closely resembles the two spotted spider mites, except for the presence of several small black spots toward the rear of the mite. Both species have two big-black spots on each side of the body. The eggs of both species are indistinguishable from each other to the un-experienced eye, except for a slight different in size. The adult spider mite is extremely small, normally of 0.4 mm long, and is only noticeable in groups.
Scouting
Examine fruit spurs in the spring time for eggs and leaves during the summer for active stages. Sampling plants and leaf brushing services are available for most areas, to determine mite numbers.
Crops
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Apples
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Apricots
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Cherries
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Crabapples
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Grapes
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Loquat
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Mayhaw
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Nectarines
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Oriental Pears
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Peaches
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Pears
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Quince
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