Mites of the genus Rhizoglyphus (Acari: Acaridae) infesting cultivated bulbs in central and southern Chile, with taxonomic notes on Acarus hyacinthi Boisduval and Rhizoglyphus frickorum Nesbitt

Abstract

A survey of pest mite species of the genus Rhizoglyphus Claparède attacking commercial bulbs in central and southern Chile was conducted. Out of 257 samples, in 142 samples, two species, Rhizoglyphus echinopus (Fumouze and Robin) and R. robini Claparède, were detected (14.1 % and 85.9 % of the samples, respectively). Rhizoglyphus echinopus was predominant in central, while R. robini was predominant in central and southern Chile. Acarus hyacinthi Boisduval, 1867, historically attributed to the genus Rhizoglyphus and considered as a pest, in fact, is a member of the genus Siteroptes Amerling (Siteroptidae) with uncertain taxonomic status and economic importance. Rhizoglyphus frickorum Nesbitt, 1988, described from Chile, is transferred to the genus Sancassania Oudemans.

Key words :

• Acari
• Acaridae
• bulb mites
• distribution
• Chile