Two-spotted spider mite

Natural Habitat

Typically found on the undersides of leaves in gardens, greenhouses, and agricultural fields worldwide.

Diet & Feeding

Herbivorous; they pierce plant cells (like those of the tomato leaf shown) to suck out the contents, creating fine white or yellow stippling.

Behavior Patterns

They are known for spinning fine silk webs to protect themselves and their eggs. They reproduce rapidly in hot, dry conditions and can spread via wind or hitchhiking on clothing.

Risks & Benefits

Risks include significant damage or death to host plants and crops. They offer no direct benefits to humans and are considered a major agricultural pest.

Identified on: 6/7/2026