Maple Bladdergall Mite
Vasates quadripedes
This record describes Vasates quadripedes (species). Recorded family: Eriophyidae. Recorded order: Trombidiformes.
Identification and Appearance
Created up to 3mm bladder-like galls which begin light colored or yellowish green then turn to reddish then to black; they appear as mini green peppers standing on stalks about the leaf surface.
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Arachnida
- Order
- Trombidiformes
- Suborder
- Prostigmata
- Superfamily
- Eriophyoidea
- Family
- Eriophyidae (Gall mites)
- Genus
- Vasates
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Diet and Behavior
Diet: Under surface of silver maple leaves
Additional species information
Species notes from the sources
Etymology: Author: Shimer, 1869
About Mites: the wider group
Order-level background for Trombidiformes, the group containing Vasates quadripedes. 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 Maple Bladdergall Mite (5)
Photo credits: Contributed by Jim McClarin; Additional contributions by ceiseman , Marci Hess
Frequently Asked Questions About Maple Bladdergall Mite
What is Maple Bladdergall Mite?
Maple Bladdergall Mite (Vasates quadripedes) is a species in the family Eriophyidae, within the order Trombidiformes.
How big is Maple Bladdergall Mite?
Ranges from 1/20 to 1/5 of a mm
What does Maple Bladdergall Mite eat?
The diet of the Maple Bladdergall Mite includes Under surface of silver maple leaves.