Where are spider mite eggs typically found?

Spider mite eggs are typically found on the underside of leaves for several reasons. Firstly, this location provides the eggs protection from predation and environmental factors such as direct sunlight and rain, which can desiccate or wash away the eggs.

Moreover, the underside of leaves is where the adult spider mites generally congregate. This makes it an ideal place for laying their eggs since the newly hatched spider mites will have immediate access to food sources, which are the plant's leaf tissues. The presence of the plant's surface hairs and textures on the underside also offers additional camouflage and security for the eggs, enhancing their chances of survival until hatching.

In contrast, finding spider mite eggs on the upper surface of leaves or on stems is less common and does not provide the same level of protection or access to resources for the developing mites. Eggs on root systems would be highly unusual, as spider mites are primarily foliar pests that feed and reproduce on the above-ground parts of the plant.