High numbers of blue oat mites have been sighted in various cereal crops in the South West Slopes district of New South Wales. Consultant, Tim Condon (Delta Agribusiness) says up to 100 mites were found on some plants, however given the size and growth stage of the plants the mites do not appear to be causing any significant damage.
Blue oat mites (Penthaleus spp.) are abundant in many cropping and pastoral areas of Victoria, Tasmania and New South Wales. They are often mistaken for redlegged earth mites due to their similar appearance and sympatric life cycle. However, blue oat mites and the redlegged earth mite differ markedly in their biology and tolerance to pesticides, and require separate management strategies. Blue oat mites can be distinguished from other mites by their blue-black coloured body and characteristic red mark on their back.
Click here for images of blue oat mites and refer to PestFacts Issue No. 2 for more information.