First Report of Rust Mite as an Invasive Pest of Guazuma ulmifolia Lam. Trees in Mexico

Abstract. The guacimo (Guazuma ulmifolia Lam.) is a tree used for several purposes in agroforestry. However, phytophagous mites have great impact on guacimo, creating leaf galls. The objective of this study was to taxonomically identify mites found in galls of G. ulmifolia at the Tepalcingo community, Morelos, Mexico. Random samples of malformed leaves and galls were collected during field trips, and taxonomic keys were used to identify the mites. Subsequently, the galls were dissected, and identity of the samples was determined with the aid of a stereoscope. The phytophagous mites belonged to the Eriophyidae family and are an invasive pest of guacimo trees. Future studies should focus on finding effective biological control agents and using molecular techniques for more accurate identification.