Western Australians’ affinity with beekeeping continues to grow, with the number of registered beekeepers across the State surpassing the 3000 mark this week.
Redlegged earth mites (RLEM) that are resistant to commonly applied insecticides including synthetic pyrethroids (Group 3A), and organophosphates (Group 1B) were first found in Western Australia.
Mites are one of the most consistent pests in deciduous fruit tree orchards in Western Australia. Over-reliance on miticides for control has led to pesticide resistance in some species.
European red mite feeds on leaves of fruit trees especially apples. This can result in premature leaf fall which affects fruit tree vigour and fruit quality.
Bananas in the Ord River Irrigation Area face two major insect pests (banana weevil borer and sugarcane bud moth) and two mites (russet and two-spotted).
Western Australian farmers planning spring control for redlegged earth mite (RLEM) on pastures are being urged to consider their plans carefully following preliminary evidence of tolerance to the i
