Two Spotted Mite
Common Name
Two Spotted Mite
Seasons of Activity
The twospotted spider mite is a “warm season” mite favored by hot, dry weather and drought conditions. Mites become active in April and May and are active the rest of the summer.
Areas of Plant Affected
Foliage
Scientific Name
tetranychus urticae
Key Distinguishing Feature
Summer adult females are a yellowish-green, with 2 pronounced dark spots, one on either side of the body. In males these spots are less conspicuous. Both sexes possess 2 reddish eyespots. Over winter females stop feeding, egg-laying and become orange-red. The adult female is about 0.5mm long, oval-shaped and rounded at the rear. The colour can vary from orange, light and dark green, reddish brown and black. Adults damage plant foliage by piercing the cells and sucking the contents, causing chlorotic spots that give the leaf a stippled appearance.
Two-spotted mites, also known as two-spotted spider mites are found worldwide including throughout Australia. They have an extremely wide host range and are readily spread by wind. Under optimum conditions the life cycle of the two-spotted mite may be as short at 2 weeks and all stages may be found at the one time.
Key Products for Control:
Rumbler - 12-44mL/100sqm
Malice Duo - 14mL/100sqm
