Poplar Bud Gall Mite
Aceria parapopuli
This record describes Aceria parapopuli (species). Recorded family: Eriophyidae. Recorded order: Trombidiformes.
Identification and Appearance
Associated with trees of the genus Populus : aspens, poplars and cottonwoods. Hard, woody, cauliflower-like galls 3 to 4 cm (1.2 to 1.6 inches) in diameter. Dark green early in the season, turning to a brick-red or blackish-brown color by late summer. Older galls become hard, have ridged and furrowed surfaces, and turn a tan or grayish color.
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Arachnida
- Order
- Trombidiformes
- Suborder
- Prostigmata
- Superfamily
- Eriophyoidea
- Family
- Eriophyidae (Gall mites)
- Genus
- Aceria
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Geographic Range
Western U.S. and Canada
Additional species information
Species notes from the sources
Etymology: "Near populi"; this species is similar to the European populi .
About Mites: the wider group
Order-level background for Trombidiformes, the group containing Aceria parapopuli. Species-specific details appear above.
Group overview
Trombidiformes includes ~26,000 described species of mites including velvet mites, chiggers, and spider mites. Spider mites (Tetranychidae) are among the most destructive agricultural pests worldwide.
Ecological role of the group
Velvet mites are important soil predators. Chigger larvae are parasitic on vertebrates and can cause intense itching (trombidiosis). Some mite species are used as biological control agents against pest mites in agriculture.
Economic and practical significance of the group
Spider mites cause billions of dollars in crop damage globally, affecting over 1,100 plant species. The two-spotted spider mite (Tetranychus urticae) has developed resistance to more pesticides than any other arthropod.
Recorded sources for this group: USDA, agricultural pest management research. Imported estimates may describe particular regions or reporting periods.
Photos of Poplar Bud Gall Mite (5)
Photo credits: Contributed by Charley Eiseman; Additional contributions by Vox Sciurorum , biosam
Frequently Asked Questions About Poplar Bud Gall Mite
What is Poplar Bud Gall Mite?
Poplar Bud Gall Mite (Aceria parapopuli) is a species in the family Eriophyidae, within the order Trombidiformes.
How do you identify Poplar Bud Gall Mite?
Associated with trees of the genus Populus : aspens, poplars and cottonwoods. Hard, woody, cauliflower-like galls 3 to 4 cm (1.2 to 1.6 inches) in diameter. Dark green early in the season, turning to a brick-red or blackish-brown color by late summer. Older galls become hard, have ridged and furrowed surfaces, and turn a tan or grayish color.
Where is Poplar Bud Gall Mite found?
Range: Western U.S. and Canada