Spider Mite ID Request
 

Hi. I've had an infestation of two-spotted false spider mites on my orchids - very easy to see and identify with a ten-power hand lens. Almost three weeks ago I treated them all with insecticidal soap and a miticide (Tau-Fluvalinate).

Inspecting them now I see what I'm pretty sure is another species of mite. First it's transparent/translucent white - not a hint of color, but with a rounder shape, and a single, dark gray spot in the middle of it's body. It's definitely not as narrow as the two-spotted I've seen before.

These new mites may have come from one or more of the three new orchids I have added to my collection after the treatment. I did inspect each very carefully and thoroughly and found no mites or eggs or any leaf damage. I know you're supposed to quarantine new orchids, but I really don't have anywhere to do that.

Can anyone tell me these "new" mites are in fact not two-spotted, and if not, are they still a pest?

I'll give you a bump but can't answer your question.

They may be juvenile forms. Repeated treatment is a must, and regardless if it is the same species or another one, mites cause severe damage to orchids. Best is to combine two or three miticides.

oh sh… lost my huge answer…:bua::bua::bua:

I'll try to come back to rewrite something even better… :evil:

The mites I describe are not two-spotted, nor the Phalaenopsis mite, nor Brevipalpus californicus. They look most like the predatory mite used commercially to control thrips, Amblyseius cucumeris. I've had the two-spotted mites before, a long time ago, and I was able to control them with repeated applications of insecticidal soap.

I am looking for reliable Pest control Port Macquarie services for my home. Please facilitate and recommend best services as I am new to this area and quite sure which ones are the best. Waiting for your responses and thanks in advance for your help!!