rust mite
US /ˈrʌst maɪt/
UK /ˈrʌst maɪt/
1.
a tiny mite (family Eriophyidae) that causes damage to plants by feeding on their surface cells, leading to a rusty or bronzed appearance on leaves and fruit
:
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The citrus trees were heavily infested with rust mites, causing the fruit to turn brown.
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Farmers often use specific pesticides to control rust mite populations.