Here is the information of the pests "jassids" and "mites" that affect fig trees:
1. Jassids:
Scientific Name: Empoasca spp.
Empoasca fabae
Empoasca devastans
Family: Cicadellidae
Order: Hemiptera
Damaging Stage: Nymphs and adults
Nature of Damage: Jassids are sap-sucking insects that feed on plant tissues, causing stunted growth, yellowing or bronzing of leaves, and curling of foliage. They also excrete honeydew, leading to the growth of sooty mold.
Oviposition: Eggs are laid within leaf tissues or stems.
Pupation Site: Pupation occurs in the soil or on the plant.
Management: Integrated pest management (IPM) strategies can include cultural practices such as pruning infested branches, using reflective mulches, and promoting natural enemies. Insecticides may be used as a last resort.
2. Mites:
Scientific Name: Tetranychus spp. (spider mites) and Eriophyes spp. (gall mites).
Family: Tetranychidae (spider mites), Eriophyidae (gall mites)
Order: Acari
Damaging Stage: Nymphs and adults
Nature of Damage: Mites are tiny arthropods that feed on plant tissues by piercing cells and sucking out the contents. They cause discoloration, stippling, leaf curling, distortion, and in severe cases, defoliation. Some mites induce galls on plant tissues.
Oviposition: Mites lay eggs on the underside of leaves or within plant tissues.
Pupation Site: Mites do not have a distinct pupal stage; they molt to reach the adult stage.
Management: Cultural practices like pruning infested plant parts, maintaining proper plant hygiene, and avoiding water stress can help manage mites. Biological control agents such as predatory mites or insecticidal soaps and miticides can also be used.
Please note that there are numerous species within each group, and the information provided is a general overview. Specific identification and management approaches may vary depending on the particular pest species and the tree species being affected.
