
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.
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.