Seasonal variation in the population density of the gall mite, Aceria pongamiae Keifer 1966 (Acari: Eriophyidae) within the leaf galls of Pongamia pinnata (L.)

Abstract

Aceria pongamiae is a highly host specific eriophyid mite, producing varying numbers of finger like leaf galls on Pongamia pinnata. P. pinnata is well known for its use in traditional systems of medicine for the treatment of varied human diseases. Gall formation by A. pongamiae adversely affects the quality of the leaves there by reducing the economic utility of the plant. The present study discusses the seasonal impact on the population density of the gall mite, A. pongamiae within the leaf galls of P. pinnata. The impact of temperature and humidity could be positively correlated with population density of the mite within the leaf galls whereas the rainfall exerted a negative correlation. The study further sheds light on percentage of damage, the relationship between the size of the galls and mite population.