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Tiny black bugs in medium - springtails? Mites?

Discussion in 'Issues, Disease and Pests' started by Tristan C, Feb 13, 2012.

  1. Feb 13, 2012 #1
    Tristan C

    Tristan C New Member

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    I've noticed some tiny black bugs on the outside of several of my small potted plants, primarily around plants in sphagnum, but one in small bark. Sprayed with insect soap, but they've come back in the last two weeks. All three plants involved are healthy and growing, the bugs aren't on the leaves or foilage.

    The bugs range in size from microscopic to nearly flea-sized, little antenna and are a solid black - no wings. Any thoughts on what they might be, and should I be concerned?

    Thank you for any advice,

    Tristan C
     
  2. Mar 30, 2012 #2
    theLab

    theLab Member Supporting Member

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  3. Apr 8, 2012 #3
    theLab

    theLab Member Supporting Member

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    Is Tristan C still alive or are we supposed to light a candle and do a prayer for him ?
     
  4. Apr 11, 2012 #4
    Uluwehi

    Uluwehi angraecoids, dendrobiums and more Supporting Member

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    Yohoo, Tristan :) Do you have pictures? I don't see one here.

    I have a handful of organisms in my growing areas that don't damage the plants, a large red mite that never does any harm an shiny black oribatid mite that feeds only algae. When I first saw them I was afraid, but I am lucky my partner has a degree in entomology and helped me ID them before I nuked them with Avid (miticide) so they were spared. I see them as positive signs of a good environment.
     
  5. Apr 14, 2012 #5
    Tristan C

    Tristan C New Member

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    Thank you both! Archegozetes longisetosus is very likely! I got out the macro lens and the fuzzy results (not a great macro lens, perhaps I'll put that on my 'wish' list) seem to be a match! I really appreciate the assistance.

    Unfortunately, I did bust out some of the big guns on the plants - but I also had a spider mite issue that I needed to eradicate. Good to know I don't need to worry as these little guys come back.

    -Tristan