Carmine Spider Mite
Scientific group or name: Tetranychus cinnabarinus complex
Overview
Carmine spider mite is a red-coloured spider mite closely related to the two-spotted spider mite. Taxonomic treatment varies, and it is often regarded as part of the Tetranychus urticae species complex.
Host plants
Many protected vegetables, ornamentals and fruit crops.
Identification
Adult females are generally dark red or carmine. Eggs and immature stages resemble those of other Tetranychus mites, and confirmation may require microscopy.
Damage and symptoms
Feeding causes stippling, bronzing, leaf decline and webbing. Heavy attacks reduce plant vigour and crop quality.
Lifecycle and favourable conditions
Warm, dry environments allow rapid development and overlapping generations.
Monitoring
Inspect leaf undersides using magnification and check webbed areas carefully. Record colour but do not rely on colour alone for identification.
Management
Use hygiene, early removal of hotspots, reduced plant stress and careful pesticide selection to conserve predators.
Biological control and natural enemies
Predatory mites used against two-spotted spider mite may also attack carmine spider mite, but establishment and performance should be checked closely.
Biological control should be selected only after the pest has been identified and the crop, temperature, growing environment and pest pressure have been considered.
Related BioWiki pages
Spider Mites · Two-Spotted Spider Mite
This page provides general integrated pest-management information. Identification and control decisions should be confirmed for the crop and local situation.