As we all know now, those early infestations developed into the most devastating outbreak of twospotted spider mites that we have ever encountered. Now, before anyone begins to freak, the situation in 2001, thus far, is different from the situation in 1988. As I indicated, concerns about drought have been alleviated for now by very timely and frequent rains. However, in areas where dry conditions still prevail, it's not too early to begin watching for buildups of twospotted spider mites along field margins. Watch for soybean plants that become stunted and yellow as a result of the mites' feeding activities, and look for webbing on the undersides of the leaves.
Nymphs have six legs, and adults have eight legs.
Infestation of twospotted spider mites at the edge of a soybean field. Close-up of an adult twospotted spider mite. So, stay alert out there, and let us know if you find infestations of twospotted spider mites developing anywhere under any conditions.