Effects of Cutting Height on the Abundance of the Eriophyid Mite Abacarus hystrix (Nalepa) and the Incidence of Ryegrass Mosaic Virus in Ryegrass

Abstract

SUMMARYIn field plot experiments in eastern England in 1974–75, the eriophyid mite Abacarus hystrix (Nalepa), vector of ryegrass mosaic virus (RMV), was less abundant on plots cut 4 cm from the ground than on those cut at 15 cm; closer cutting also delayed the spread of RMV. Leaving cut grass to dry on the plots had no significant effect on mite abundance or RMV incidence. Mites were most numerous in autumn, least numerous in winter and increased in spring; the rate of RMV spread followed a similar pattern.