Winter grain mite (Penthaleus major) was recently found on one of our wheat fields. This pest is active when the days are cool and wet (below 75°F). Scouting while the environment is like this will greatly increase your success of finding this pest. Pay attention to the lower and mid part of the plant where they rest during the day, also pay close attention the soil around the base of the plant. Winter grain mite have black to dark brown bodies with four pairs of red-orange legs and a yellow spot on the lower part of their back. Winter grain mite is present from August to April in Texas. Feed injury causes the leaf tips to turn brown and stunt plants, ultimately giving them a silvery-gray appearance. Control for this pest is usually not needed but pesticide recommendations can be found online.
John Few IPM Extension Program Specialist
