Is Eriophyes mali Nalepa present in Italy?

In the last few years, blistering symptoms were observed on apple plants in commercial orchards. Blisters are commonly found on apple leaves as well as on small fruits. This symptom is compatible with that described for apple blister mites belonging to the genus Eriophyes (Eriophyidae). To assess the identity of the etiological agent, leaf blisters and buds of symptomatic apple and, as a control, pear plants were examined under the dissection microscope and eriophyoid mites were collected. Specimens were examined using both molecular and morphological approaches. The analysis of sequences confirmed that eriophyoid mites collected from symptomatic apple and pear plants are genetically different. Our analyses highlight a complex scenario inside the genus Eriophyes that is worth to be studied in more detail.

Automated summary

Blistering symptoms have been observed on apple plants in commercial orchards in recent years, affecting both leaves and small fruits. The etiological agent responsible for this symptom is identified as apple blister mites belonging to the genus Eriophyes. Through molecular and morphological analyses, it was confirmed that the eriophyoid mites collected from symptomatic apple and pear plants are genetically different. This study highlights the need for further research on the complex scenario within the genus Eriophyes.