Infestation?! What are these?

[joshuaseidman94]

So I have a 9 month old panther chameleon. Recently I have been having a problem with an infestation of the live plants in his cage. There are these yellowish eggs all over the leaves of my hibiscus (preventing budding). Now the infestation has spread to the leaves of my devil's Ivy. These little yellow spidery bugs emerge from the eggs and are all over the screen and plants. I posted some photos below so please let me know what they are and how to get rid of them! I have had them for a few weeks and it is getting worst and worst. I tried using steam to get rid of them but they keep coming back. I am looking into a few products like "reptile Relief", " mite off", and "prevent a mite"..Anyone have any ideas???

Thanks!

 

[cass737]

Don't quote me on this but to me they look like spider mites. I've had a few plants in the past that have been infested with these and they are really stubborn and difficult to get rid of. The only way I know of to eradicate them is with a toxic spray that would probably be dangerous for your cham. If they are spider mites, your only option unfortunately might be to get new plants

Hopefully I'm wrong!

 

[Chance Leon G]

Spider Mites

I am sorry to say I agree. They do look like spider mites and they do suck the life out of the new growth. Look for a delicate web surrounding the new growth buds on your plant. They love indoor plants.
There are non toxic soap sprays that you can use to remove them. You will have to take the plant out and clean it and relocate your cam out of the cage and clean the cage thoroughly as well.
Sorry about the bugs, Greg

 

[joshuaseidman94]

I purchased reptile spray which is a nontoxic mite killing spray for reptiles..have either of you tried this method?

 

[Chance Leon G]

Spider Mites

No I have not. My experience with the spider mites did not involve my cham. The product you are talking about is for mites on a lizard.
You will be picking the webs and dead mites off the plants after you spray them with the soap solutions. Clean the room your cage is in very well. They are very persistent.
I know there are non toxic sprays available that are meant to use on herbs and vegetables.
It was many years ago I cannot remember the name of the one I used. There are many products available at a good nursery. I am not sure what the big box stores would have. Also try looking it up on line.
Best of luck, Greg

 

[Chance Leon G]

Spider Mites

Oh, one thing I forgot. How is your humidity level? And what method of misting are you doing? I seem to remember the Spider Mites liking it dry.
Perhaps in the future give your plants a good washing down regularly after you get rid of them. This may help prevent a return of the sucking beasts.
Greg