Certified Arborist Practice Exam

Are mites considered insects?

1. True

2. False

3. Partially true

4. Depends on the type of mite

The correct answer is: False

Mites are not considered insects; they belong to a different class of arthropods known as arachnids, which also includes spiders and scorpions. While insects have three distinct body segments (head, thorax, abdomen) and six legs, arachnids typically have two body segments (cephalothorax and abdomen) and eight legs. This fundamental anatomical difference is what categorizes mites separately from insects. Thus, the assertion that mites are classified as insects is incorrect, making the choice indicating false the correct answer. Understanding this classification is important, especially in fields like arboriculture, as different types of pests can affect trees and plants in various ways.