Lardoglyphidae

Host plants and products: These mites primarily infest stored commodities with high protein and fat content. They frequently damage wheat, barley, corn, flour, and processed animal products. They thrive in environments where sanitation levels are low and moisture content is consistently high.

Biology and lifecycle: The lifecycle passes through several stages, including egg, larva, protonymph, deutonymph (hypopus), tritonymph, and adult. The hypopus stage is a critical adaptation that allows the species to withstand extreme desiccation and hunger, enabling them to survive in cracks and crevices for months until conditions improve.

Nature of damage and economic impact: The damage is primarily caused by feeding on the germ of the seed, which destroys the seed's viability. Furthermore, the mass presence of mites leads to the accumulation of allergens and pathogens in the product. Infested grain develops a foul odor, darkens in color, and quickly starts to ferment or mold due to the increase in moisture generated by mite metabolism.

Control measures: Protecting stored products requires a strict integrated approach:

• Maintaining product moisture levels below 14% at all times.
• Implementing rigorous hygiene and cleaning protocols in storage facilities.
• Using certified fumigants to eliminate established mite populations.
• Ensuring adequate ventilation to prevent moisture accumulation pockets.