Broad Mite

Broad mites are often found in depressions on fruit where the females lay their eggs, which are dimpled, translucent, and covered in white speckles. These mites are so small you need a hand lens to see them. Broad mites are yellowish and adult females have a white stripe on the back.

Broad mites feed on fruit and leaves, preferring young fruit up to about 1 inch (2.5 cm) in diameter that are located on the inside of the canopy or on the inward facing side of outer fruit. Feeding results in scarred tissue that cracks as fruit grows, leaving a characteristic pattern of scars and new tissue. Although most feeding occurs on fruit, broad mites may also feed on young expanding leaves causing them to curl. This cupping and curling of leaves can appear similar to mild damage caused by glyphosate (Roundup) applications, nutritional (boron) deficiencies, or physiological disorders.

Broad mites are occasional pests of coastal lemons from late July through early October; infestations are enhanced by the presence of Argentine ants. This mite often occurs in conjunction with citrus rust mite, with the rust mite usually predominating in number. Populations of broad mite tend to be most severe in warm, humid conditions such as those found in greenhouses. No treatment thresholds have been developed for broad mite in citrus. If high and increasing numbers warrant a pesticide application, use miticides with the least toxicity to predatory mites.