Tetranychid mite (Spider mites)

Leaves of ornamental plants, crops, and trees; often found on the undersides of leaves and in greenhouses.

Plant sap; they use piercing-sucking mouthparts to feed on the liquid inside individual plant cells.

They live in colonies and produce fine silk webbing to protect themselves from predators and environmental factors. Rapid reproduction occurs in hot, dry conditions.

Major agricultural and horticultural pests. They cause stippling, yellowing, and leaf drop (as seen on the host plant in the image), which can lead to plant death. They have no significant benefits to human ecosystems.