Oxycenus maxwelli (Keifer) (Acari: Eriophyidae) danificando a cultura da oliveira, Olea europaea L., no Estado do Rio Grande do Sul

Abstract

The olive bud mite Oxicenus maxwelli (Keifer, 1939) was identified in olive groves in the municipalities of Santana do Livramento, Bagé, Candiota, Pelotas and Rio Grande, RS in November 2010 to February 2011. The specie was found on the upper surface and under surface of young leaves, flowers and buds where it causes deformities, loss of leaves and flowers, decreased photosynthesis and budding, damaging the plant's production and marketing of deformed fruits. This is the first record of the species attacking the olive tree in the state of Rio Grande do Sul.