Effects of Caroloptes sp. (Eriophyoidea, Arachnida) on Warszewiczia coccinea cv. 'David Auyong'

Abstract

A new species of the eriophyoid mite Caroloptes was found to infest Warszewiczia coccinea cv. 'David Auyong'. Erinea were produced on both the abaxial and adaxial surfaces of the petaloid sepals and on the abaxial surface of leaves. Infestation was in general light; in instances of heavy infestation there was as much as 50% erineal cover on leaves, leading eventually to defoliation, but loss of leaves per plant was minimal. Symptoms and histology of affected leaves are reported.