Biology
Adult and immature bindweed gall mites form galls on the
growing tips of the leaves and stem buds. Mites feed along
the midrib of the leaves and form galls which result in twisted
or folded leaves. Mites cause stem buds to form compact clusters
of stunted leaves or they fail to elongate.
History
The bindweed gall mite was first introduced into Texas in
1989 from Greece, France, and Italy by USDA- ARS.
Status
This mite is now established around Amarillo.
Management
Methods to redistribute the bindweed gall mite and document
the impact are now being studied (Michels 1999).
Weeds Affected
This mite is known only to attack field bindweed.
Literature
Michels, J. 1999. Gall mite shows promise against field bindweed.
Texas Biological Control News. Texas Agr. Ext. Service. TAMU
System. Allen Knutson, editor.
Links
