Fine webbing and bronzed foliage usually indicate an infestation of which pest?

Fine webbing and bronzed foliage are characteristic signs of a spider mite infestation. These pests, particularly the two-spotted spider mite, create silk-like webs on the undersides of leaves and can cause damage that results in a bronzed or stippled appearance on the foliage. This is due to their feeding habits, where they pierce plant cell membranes to extract sap, leading to leaf discoloration and damage over time. The fine webbing can also serve as a protective layer for the spider mites, making them harder to control with certain pest management strategies. Understanding these signs is crucial for early identification and effective management of spider mite populations in crops and ornamental plants.