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Tiny Mite May Provide Biological Control for Canada Thistle A team of plant physiologists is studying a tiny mite as a possible biological control for Canada Thistle, a major invasive weed pest in U.S. pastures. First identified in Europe more than 100 years ago, this mite, (aceria anthocoptes), was discovered in the United States in 1998, when scientists collected some Canada thistle, (Cirsium arvense), on Maryland's eastern shore. Preliminary results from a survey of the area and surrounding states indicate the mite is abundant there and specific for Canada thistle. Under growth-chamber conditions, mite populations on a Canada thistle plant can reach very high levels and cause severe damage. Their presence leads to a reddish-brown discoloration and curling of leaves and spindly growth. They can also transmit plant diseases to the weed. The mite was identified and characterized using state-of-the-art scanning electron microscope mounting techniques that use low temperature. The scientists hope to learn whether mite populations in the field can be manipulated to significantly curb Canada thistle growth and if the mite can transmit viruses to the weed that could also impede its growth. A search for viral-infected Canada thistle plants in the areas where they were once reported--Denmark, England, and North Dakota--is under way. The team also plans to further examine the specificity of A. anthocoptes. |
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