Spider Mites

Ten species of spider mites are reported to attack cotton in the United States. The twospotted spider mite (Tetranychus urticae Koch) is common throughout most of the cottonbelt while the other species are more restricted in distribution.

Mites cause damage by sucking cell contents from leaves. A small number of mites is not usually reason for concern, but very high populations—levels high enough to show visible damage to leaves—can be damaging to plants. Damage is usually worse when compounded by water stress.