Spider Mite

Actual Size: Less than 1/20”

Characteristics: Two red eyespots near the head. Oval-shaped bodies with large, dark blotches on each side.

Legs: Juveniles have 6 legs; adults have 8 legs.

Antennae: No

Wings: No

Habitat: Mainly found in fruits and vegetables in farms or home gardens. May also infest turfgrass.

Habits:

  • Are tiny creatures that look like tiny, moving dots to the naked eye. 
  • Can cause yellow or brown spots on plant foliage. 
  • Large populations produce webbing that covers plant leaves and stems.

Spider Mites in Anaheim

If you have a farm or a garden, you’ve likely come across spider mites at least once. These are the most common mite pests and are found all across the United States in houseplants, berry bushes, vegetables, and fruit trees. Though they’re related to insects, spider mites are actually a member of the arachnid class along with spiders and ticks. Though these pests are tiny, measuring just 1/20th of an inch, they can reproduce very quickly and cause serious damage to any plant they infest.

Spider Mite Habitat

Spider mites feed on all sorts of plants, from fruit trees and vegetables to houseplants. They consume the innards of plants by piercing the leaf and sucking out the green liquid. If spider mites are feeding on your plant, you may notice bronze or brown-colored patches on the leaves. If your plant is experiencing a severe infestation, there may also be a very fine webbing covering the branches and leaves. If the weather is warm enough, spider mites can feed and reproduce all year long. 

Spider Mite Behaviors, Threats, or Dangers

While spider mites are not a danger to human health, they can disrupt your landscape. These pests are drawn to the warm climate here in Anaheim, and they’re a year-round problem for many gardeners or farmers in our area. Though mild infestations just look like a little yellowing or browning of plant leaves, heavy infestations can cause plants to stop growing or die. If you keep finding spider mites on your property or are worried they’re killing your plants, get in touch with a professional tick and mite control expert for assistance.