Aceria pyracanthi

Firethorn gall mite

Description

Aceria pyracanthi, commonly known as the firethorn gall mite, is a small eriophyid mite that exclusively infests Pyracantha species, particularly Pyracantha coccinea (scarlet firethorn). Originally described in Italy, this mite is now widely spread across various European countries. The mite feeds by piercing plant tissues and sucking out nutrients, which leads to the formation of erineum, a type of abnormal plant hair growth, on the undersides and sometimes on the upper sides of leaves. While this pest does not usually cause severe damage to the plant’s health, the visual impact is significant, as it produces red or brown fuzzy patches on the leaves, which can detract from the aesthetic value of firethorn in ornamental settings (gardens and parks). Heavy infestations, though rare, may further stress already weakened plants.

Symptom

The leaves exhibit dense, fuzzy erineum patches that range from bright red to dark brown as they age. These patches, primarily on the leaf's underside, often appear as irregular, raised clusters.

Tree Species: Firethorn

Part of a plant- attacked: Leaf / Needle

Pest significance: Less harmful

Pest Category: Mites

Invasive Species: No

Present in EU: Yes