2 replies to this topic

[Mdrogun]

Hey everyone,

 

I recently ordered a culture of Drosophila hydei from Josh's frogs off Amazon.com. Shortly after I got them I noticed that there was quite a bit of mites in the culture. I'm guessing that they're benign because only a tiny amount of them are ever spotted on the flies larvae and pupae. Does anybody know what species these are and are they parasitic or benign?

 

Here's a video of them:

 

I did my best to get them on video but they're really tiny.

 

 

Thanks

Edited by Mdrogun, October 20 2016 - 7:23 PM.

[Crystals]

My guess is benign, but check to see if they are clinging to any flies.

When you go to start a new culture, put the container in a dusted bin and remove the lid, let the flies climb up and jump out (like in this post).  And just the flies to the new culture. Do not shake the container and the mites usually do not get into a new culture.  Ensure the lid is well sealed (I use paper towel over the ventilation holes).

If unsure when feeding, freeze any flies for 4 hours before feeding. That will kill any mites.

[Canadian anter]

I'm pretty sure they're benign