Herbivory of Polyphagotarsonemus latus (Banks) (Acari: Tarsonemidae) on Carica papaya L.

Abstract

Objective: Characterize malformations caused by the mite Polyphagotarsonemus latus Banks, to papaya (Carica papaya L.) at three phenological stages.

Design/methodology/approach: Papaya seedlings variety Maradol kept at 26 ±2 ºC, R.H. 65-80% and photoperiod 13:11 h (light: darkness), were infested with specimens of P. latus, in a completely randomized design with paired plots, at the phenological stages of three, five and seven true leaves, plus an uninfested control. With 10 weekly samplings, measurements were taken of area of the apical leaf, diameter of stems, fresh weight of petioles, stems and roots; number of apical, total and axillary leaves; number of specimens of every developmental stage of P. latus.

Results: Highly significant differences were recorded for leaf area, weight of total leaves, weight and diameter of the stem and number of leaves, between infested and uninfested plants. P. latus caused the so called “monkey´s hand”, with reduced foliar area; the most susceptible stage was five true leaves. This mite settles for short time on papaya leaves, making difficult to establish a relation between infestation and injuries.

Limitations of the study/implications: It is not excluded that other agents may cause similar injuries to papaya; because of that, mite control will not necessarily result on reduced injuries.

Findings/conclusions: P. latus causes symptoms to papaya plants such as color changes, malformations, reduced foliar area and necrosed apical tissues. In those injuries there is no apparent association of any virus.