The spider mite is a tiny arachnid that belongs to the family Tetranychidae. These pests are often found on the undersides of leaves, where they feed on plant sap. They can be difficult to see without a magnifying glass, as they are usually less than 1 millimeter in size. Spider mites thrive in warm, dry conditions and can reproduce rapidly, leading to large infestations. They can cause significant damage to a variety of plants, including vegetables, fruits, and ornamentals. Signs of an infestation include stippling on leaves and fine webbing, which can indicate the presence of these pests.