Historically, two-spotted spider mites were the dominant mite species in cotton production and the focus of research. The widespread uptake of Bt cotton and overall reduction in sprays has led to increased abundance of strawberry spider mite and bean spider mite.

This investment seeks to understand the distribution and relative damage potential associated with all three mite species to inform management decisions in cotton fields where mixed species are identified. Information will be utilised to enhance insecticide resistance management strategies, reducing the risk of chemical resistance and the risks to the environment associated with prophylactic spraying.