Developmental Anatomy of Lesions on `Sunburst' Mandarin Leaves Initiated by Citrus Rust Mite Feeding

Abstract

Upper surface leaf lesions on `Sunburst' mandarin [(Citrus reticulata Blanco × (C. paradisi Macf. × C. reticulate)] associated with feeding by the citrus rust mite [Phyllocoptruta oleivora (Ashm.)] are more severe than those on other citrus cultivars. Development of leaf lesions on `Sunburst' mandarin and two other cultivars were examined by light and electron microscopy. Damaged leaves treated with a fungicide confirmed that the anatomical changes on `Sunburst' are an enhanced wound periderm response to feeding injury by rust mite and not the result of fungal invasion.