Which pest attacks spruce, arborvitae, juniper, hemlock, pine, and other conifers, builds up during warm spring and fall weather, is halted by hot and dry conditions, and causes elongated chlorotic patches on needles, with severe outbreaks causing browning and needle loss?

Which pest attacks spruce, arborvitae, juniper, hemlock, pine, and other conifers, builds up during warm spring and fall weather, is halted by hot and dry conditions, and causes elongated chlorotic patches on needles, with severe outbreaks causing browning and needle loss?

• A. Spruce spider mite
• B. Larch case bearer
• C. Cypress tip moth
• D. Mountain pine beetle

Answer: (A)

This description fits a conifer mite that feeds on needles and shows a distinct seasonal pattern. Spruce spider mite is a tiny eight-legged pest that attacks many conifers, including spruce, arborvitae, juniper, hemlock, and pine. Populations tend to build up during warm spring and fall weather, while very hot and dry conditions tend to slow or halt their activity. The damage from feeding appears as elongated chlorotic patches along the needles, and when outbreaks are severe, you see browning and needle loss. This combination of the broad host range, the seasonal buildup, sensitivity to hot dry conditions, and the specific chlorotic needle patches is a hallmark of spruce spider mite.

This description fits a conifer mite that feeds on needles and shows a distinct seasonal pattern. Spruce spider mite is a tiny eight-legged pest that attacks many conifers, including spruce, arborvitae, juniper, hemlock, and pine. Populations tend to build up during warm spring and fall weather, while very hot and dry conditions tend to slow or halt their activity. The damage from feeding appears as elongated chlorotic patches along the needles, and when outbreaks are severe, you see browning and needle loss. This combination of the broad host range, the seasonal buildup, sensitivity to hot dry conditions, and the specific chlorotic needle patches is a hallmark of spruce spider mite.