A new species of mite pest (Acari: Eriophidae) from a medicinal plant, Tiliacora racemosa Colebr: (Menispermaceae) from West Bengal, India

During the periodical surveys for plant mites from northern districts of West Bengal of India, a new species, Neodicrothrix bengalensis N. sp. of the family Eriophyidae is found along the undersurface the leaves of Tiliacora racemosa Colebr. (Menispermaceae). Morphometric and diagnostic features this new mite species is well described and illustrated from the area of present study. A brief discussion on the genus Neodicrothrix and the relationships of new species with other closely related species are also provided. This new mite species causes damage to this economically important medicinal plant by its feeding habit and produces leaf rusts and brown patches on leaves. Due to infestation of this mite the leaves become unsuitable for medicinal use. For pest management, the taxonomic study of this mite and their relation to the host plant is very much essential.