Which statement about European red mite on apple trees is true?

Which statement about European red mite on apple trees is true?

• A. Bronzing of leaves is caused by European red mite.
• B. Silk webbing on leaves is caused by a spider mite.
• C. Honeydew accumulation indicates scale infestation.
• D. Leaves curl due to aphid feeding.

Answer: (A)

European red mite injury on apple leaves is most clearly indicated by bronzing of the foliage. The mites feed by puncturing leaf cells and sucking out contents, which creates a stippled, bronze-colored appearance that’s easy to spot on the leaves. This damage reduces photosynthesis and can lead to reduced vigor if the infestation is severe. Silk webbing is something some spider mites do, but European red mite typically isn’t identified by heavy webbing on apples, so bronzing is a more reliable sign for this pest. Honeydew is the sugary exudate associated with aphids and some scale insects, not with European red mites. Likewise, leaf curling is more characteristic of aphid feeding.

European red mite injury on apple leaves is most clearly indicated by bronzing of the foliage. The mites feed by puncturing leaf cells and sucking out contents, which creates a stippled, bronze-colored appearance that’s easy to spot on the leaves. This damage reduces photosynthesis and can lead to reduced vigor if the infestation is severe.

Silk webbing is something some spider mites do, but European red mite typically isn’t identified by heavy webbing on apples, so bronzing is a more reliable sign for this pest. Honeydew is the sugary exudate associated with aphids and some scale insects, not with European red mites. Likewise, leaf curling is more characteristic of aphid feeding.