Spider Mite

Natural Habitat

Spider mites are found globally and thrive in warm, dry conditions. They are common pests in agricultural settings, greenhouses, and home gardens. They infest a wide range of plants, both indoors and outdoors.

Diet & Feeding

Herbivorous. Spider mites feed on the chlorophyll and cell contents of a wide variety of plants, including ornamental plants, fruits, vegetables, and field crops. They are sap-sucking pests.

Behavior Patterns

Spider mites often live in colonies on the undersides of leaves, especially during hot, dry weather. They reproduce quickly, with life cycles ranging from 5 to 20 days depending on temperature. They feed by inserting their mouthparts into plant cells and sucking out the contents, leaving behind stippling (tiny dots) on the leaves. They produce fine silk webbing, particularly when infestations are severe, which can cover leaves and stems.

Risks & Benefits

Risks: Spider mites are significant agricultural and horticultural pests. Heavy infestations can cause extensive damage to plants, leading to yellowing, defoliation, stunted growth, and reduced yields. They can severely impact crop production and ornamental plant health. Benefits: Under normal circumstances, spider mites provide minimal benefits; however, they can serve as a food source for some predatory insects, but this benefit is often outweighed by their pest status.

Identified on: 8/13/2025