Spider Mites

Natural Habitat

Found on a wide variety of plants, indoors (houseplants) and outdoors (garden plants, trees, shrubs). They prefer hot, dry conditions and are often problematic in arid climates or in heated indoor environments.

Diet & Feeding

Spider mites are plant sap-suckers. They feed by piercing plant cells with their mouthparts and extracting the chlorophyll, leading to characteristic stippling (tiny white or yellow dots) on leaves. Severe infestations can cause leaves to turn yellow, brown, or bronze, and eventually drop off.

Behavior Patterns

Spider mites reproduce quickly, especially in warm, dry conditions. They spin fine silk webbing, often visible on the undersides of leaves or between stems, which protects them and their eggs. Infestations typically start in small, localized areas and can spread rapidly if not controlled. They are most active during dry periods.

Risks & Benefits

Potential Risks: Spider mites are significant agricultural and horticultural pests. They can cause severe damage to plants, reducing yield, aesthetic value, and even leading to plant death if infestations are left unchecked. They are particularly detrimental to houseplants and greenhouse crops. Potential Benefits: In healthy ecosystems, predatory mites and other natural enemies can help control spider mite populations, contributing to biological pest control.

Identified on: 8/12/2025