Mites are a diverse group of invertebrate insects that have successfully adapted to a variety of habitats. They can live in the soil or water, but there are also a significant number of species that live as parasites on plants. One common mite that affects plants is the spider mite. These mites can cause severe injury to plants in a short amount of time. By piercing holes to feed, spider mites cause leaves to become dry and brittle. When this occurs, a plant's defense against water loss is compromised, leaving the overall affected plant dehydrated and more susceptible to defoliation and eventual plant death.