Definition & Meaning of "red spider mite"

What is a "red spider mite"?

A red spider mite, also known as the two-spotted spider mite, is a tiny arachnid that feeds on plant sap and is a common pest in gardens and agricultural crops. It has a reddish or greenish coloration and produces fine silk webs on infested plants. Red spider mites can cause damage to plants by sucking the juices from leaves, resulting in yellowing, wilting, and eventual decline of the plant's health. They are known for their rapid reproductive rate and ability to develop resistance to pesticides, making them a challenging pest to control.