Lychee (Litchi chinensis) is a tropical fruit tree native to China. It is widely cultivated in subtropical climates around the world, including southern Florida. Many Floridians also enjoy lychee in their home landscapes. Earlier this year, DPI discovered a new lychee pest in Florida. The lychee erinose mite was detected on lychee trees in Lee County, FL, in a residential area and a lychee farm.

Anyone who has a lychee tree in this area should watch for signs of damage from this mite. The mites are too small to see without a microscope, but growers may notice erineum galls on the leaf surface, or rust-colored patches on the undersides of the leaves.

For more information and images of lychee erinose mite damage, please read this DPI Pest Alert. Any samples that match the description of this mite should be sent to DPI immediately. Call or email DPI for assistance with sample submission (DPIHelpline@FreshFromFlorida.com or 1-888-397-1517).

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