NC State Extension Publications

Description and Biology

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The hemlock rust mite, Nalepella tsugifoliae, is a virtually microscopic mite in the family Eriophyidae that includes gall mites and bud mites. Hemlock rust mites are "vagrants" because they crawl about on the surface on hemlock needles and bark. They do not cause galls and do not wedge into buds. Females do overwinter in bark cracks. These yellowish to reddish-orange mites have only four legs. They are shaped more or less like the snack food 'Bugles' with the mouthparts and legs all at the wide end. They feed on the needles of hemlock all year, but build up to great numbers in cool, dry springs. Females lay comparitively large eggs from which hatch first nymphs. Eggs are off-white but overwintering eggs are reddish to tan, laid in clusters. First nymphs molt into second nymphs that in a few days molt into new adults. Because they are so small, their tiny mouthparts can only pierce the epidermis. They inject saliva and suck out the predigested plant juice. A tiny pale spot forms at each feeding puncture. The nymphal cast skins are white and contribute to the grayish appearance of heavily infested hemlocks.

A wonderful portrait of hemlock rust mites and eggs.

Hemlock rust mites are incredibly tiny.

Three hemlock rust mites on a hemlock needle.

Hemlock rust mites are usually on the lower part of hemlock needles.

Mostly cast skins of hemlock rust mites (some dead mites interspersed).

During the summer, cast skins are often abundant (but few mites).

Nine overwintering hemlock rust mite eggs.

Hemlock rust mites survive the winter as eggs that turn reddish or tan in color.

Life history of eriophyid mite: adult (top), eggs, first nymph, and second nymph.

Eriophyid mites have two nymphal stages.

Host Plants

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Eriophyid mites are usually host specific. The hemlock rust mite feeds on hemlock so there is no danger that it might spread to other plants (although it has been reported from fir.). Heavily infested hemlocks turn yellowish to grayish (spruce spider mites cause hemlocks to bronze) before the needles drop prematurely. Because hemlock rust mites are most abundant in spring, later new growth may be unaffected.

Hemlock rust mite damage. Note the new growth is relatively unscathed.

Hemlock rust mites start feeding in very early spring.

Residential Recommendations

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Phytoseiid mites feed on hemlock rust mites as do certain lady beetles and lacewing insects. In addition, a parasitic fungus, Hirsutella thompsonii, devastates rust mite populations when the weather is warm and humid. Hemlock rust mites are sensitive to Sevin insecticide. A horticultural oil should give adequate control as well. The Hemlock Pest Management Calendar gives some idea as to when to scout for various pests of hemlock.

An eriophyid mite infected with a parasitic fungus, Hirsutella thompsonii

This fungus is favored by warm, humid weather.

Illustration by J.R. Baker

Other Resources

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For assistance with a specific problem, contact your local N.C. Cooperative Extension center.

This Factsheet has not been peer reviewed.

Author

Professor Emeritus
Entomology & Plant Pathology

Find more information at the following NC State Extension websites:

Publication date: Feb. 5, 2019
Revised: Nov. 9, 2023

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