What is a "mite"?

A mite is a tiny arthropod belonging to the subclass Acari. Mites are characterized by their small size, usually less than 1 mm in length, and their eight legs. They are found in a wide range of habitats, including soil, water, plants, and animals. Mites are incredibly diverse and can be herbivores, predators, parasites, or scavengers, depending on the species. Some mites are important in agricultural systems as beneficial predators that feed on pests, while others can be pests themselves, causing damage to crops or transmitting diseases.