This is the critter -- a rose mite the size of half a grain of salt -- that's been causing the rose rosette virus, which has now spread to 30 states.
Scientists at the Agricultural Research Service (ARS) in Beltsville, Maryland, identified the mite (Phyllocoptes fructiphilus) deep inside the flower's internal organs. Researchers found the tiny mite at the base of glandular hairs on the rose's sepals, tiny leaf-like appendages at the base of the flower. By hiding so deep within a rose, the mite can avoid sprays or other treatments that might kill it.
Scientists say now that they know what's causing the problem, breeders, producers, and others involved in the rose industry may be able to target the mite with new treatments. The study also identified several predatory mites that might be able to be used as biological controls.
Let's all hope.
Results of the study, by ARS visiting scientist and lead author Gabriel Otero-Colina, from the Colegio de Postgraduados in Texcoco, Mexico, have been published in the Journal of Environmental Horticulture.
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