What classification do mites fall under?

Mites are classified under arthropods, which is a diverse group of invertebrates that includes insects, arachnids, myriapods, and crustaceans. Specifically, mites belong to the subclass Acari within the class Arachnida, which distinguishes them from insects (which belong to the class Insecta) and other arthropods.

Mites share key characteristics with other arthropods, such as having an exoskeleton, jointed legs, and a segmented body. However, what sets them apart is their unique body structure—mites typically have two main body segments (the cephalothorax and abdomen fused together), as opposed to insects, which have three (head, thorax, and abdomen). This classification is critical for understanding their biology, behavior, and management in various contexts, including landscape maintenance and pest control.