Redlegged earth mite (RLEM) has developed resistance to the two main chemical groups that are commonly used to control it. This guide provides details of a chemical windrowing approach that can improve effectiveness of chemicals even where RLEM resistance to both synthetic pyrethroids (Group 3A) and organophosphates (Group 1B).

Key points

• RLEM is a major pest of pastures and grain crops.
• RLEM is very harmful to seedlings. It’s usually most damaging to canola and emerging annual pastures.
• RLEM is usually active from late April until early November. Autumn rainfall and cool temperatures cause eggs to hatch.
• An adult is about 1mm long, with a velvety black body and eight orange-red coloured legs.
• It has developed resistance to the two main chemical groups commonly used for its control.
• Resistance to these chemicals is common across Western Australia and parts of eastern Australia.
• Advice on reducing the risk of further resistance is in the fact sheet.

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