The hibiscus erineum mite, Aceria hibisci (Nalepa 1906)

Abstract

Aceria hibisci, the hibiscus erineum mite, is a mite in the family Eriophyidae and can be a pest on ornamental Hibiscus rosa-sinensis plants. Eriophyid mites are small worm-like mites that feed on plants by sucking out the cellular contents from leaves and stems. During feeding, they release chemicals that cause the formation of abnormal plant growths like galls and erinea. This mite species is not currently present in the continental U.S., but is established in several Pacific islands including Fiji and Hawaii, as well as Caribbean regions including Cuba, Puerto Rico, and Jamaica. Therefore, it is a species of concern with potential to become introduced and established in the continental U.S. This publication describes biology, diagnosis, distribution, and management of this mite species.