One of the most common mites attacking vegetables, especially tomatoes, cucurbits, and beans is the

• A. Banks grass mite
• B. Twospotted spider mite
• C. Brown wheat mite
• D. Potato mite

Answer: (B)

Mites that attack a wide range of vegetables tend to be the twospotted spider mite. This tiny pest loves hot, dry conditions and reproduces quickly, so it can build up on crops like tomatoes, cucurbits (cucumbers, squash, melons), and beans, often before you notice severe damage. The feeding causes stippling or speckling on the leaves, which can lead to yellowing and reduced photosynthesis. As populations grow, they produce fine webs on the undersides of leaves, a hallmark of this species.

Why this one is the best choice: among the options, the twospotted spider mite is the most well-known for attacking a broad range of vegetable crops, including tomatoes, cucurbits, and beans. The other mites listed are more typically problematic on grasses or grains (Banks grass mite, brown wheat mite) or on potato plants (potato mite), not as common on a wide variety of vegetables. So, the twospotted spider mite is the most consistent and widespread pest across those vegetable crops.