The color of two–spotted spider mites can differ according to the host plant, varying from orange, light yellow or light green to red, brown or almost black. Adult spider mites have two dark spots on their flanks. During heavy infestation numerous webs made from silky threads can be found on the plant. Females usually deposit eggs on the underside of the leaves in these webs. The first larval stage has three pairs of legs. Starting from the second larval stage, mites have four pairs of legs. Theseare called the protonymph stage (second stage) and deutonymphstage (third stage). The two dark spots on the body darken when the mites age. Females enter diapause during unsuitable conditions (short day length, low temperatures and food) shortage. Mites in diapause are colored red. 

Two-spotted spider mite damage and distribution

Two-spotted spider mites are usually found on the underside of leaves and on growth tips of plants. Feeding damage expresses itself as small light spots. Feeding damage inhibits plant growth en causes reduced yield. During heavy infestation the leaf will die. In addition, webs and feeding damage cause cosmetic damage in ornamentals.