Taxonomic confusion surrounding mite pests of sugarcane and rice (Acari: Eriophyidae)

Historical records of some species of mites of the family Eriophyidae attacking rice (Oryza sativa L.) and sugarcane (Saccharum officinarum L.) in southeast Asia and Australia are reviewed. The names Aceriasaccharini, Aceria sacchari, Eriophyes saccharini, Aceria saccharium, and Abacarus sacchari have been applied to these mites, but the identity of the species that occur in Australia has not been definitely established. These records are subject to taxonomic and nomenclatural confusion that potentially complicates pest management and biosecurity. The causative agent of the sugarcane disease known as wart-eye has not been identified, but may be an eriophyoid mite.