Leopards don't change their spots, but these mites will!

Leopards don't change their spots, but these mites will! Dr. Mohammad Amir Aghaee just published a blog post on Lewis mites and their seeming ability to "transform" into two-spotted spider mites (TSSM). This illusion of changing spots is due to the movement of the organelles and food within the body of the mite, shown in the video above. Lewis mite is a serious pest because it can outpace TSSM and predatory mites during winter months when temperatures are below 15 °C. Learn more about distinguishing these mites and their impact here:

https://strawberrycenterblog.com/2025/03/11/a-leopard-doesnt-change-its-spots-but-these-mites-will/