Bug Identifier
Red spider mite (likely)
Community identification

Red spider mite (likely)

Tetranychus urticae

Order & Family
Acari (mites), family Tetranychidae
Size
About 0.3–0.5 mm long; usually appears as a tiny moving red speck.
See this bug in the Encyclopedia

Natural Habitat

Plant foliage, especially on indoor plants, gardens, greenhouses, and hot, dry environments. The pictured individual is too small for certain identification.

Diet & Feeding

Pierces plant cells and sucks their contents, causing stippling, yellowing, bronzing, and fine webbing. It does not typically bite humans.

Behavior Patterns

Rapidly reproduces in warm, dry conditions; eggs and multiple generations may occur on one plant. Populations can spread via wind, clothing, tools, or infested plants.

Risks & Benefits

Harmless to people and pets but can seriously damage ornamental and crop plants. Predatory mites and other natural enemies help control populations.