Asthma and allergic rhinitis due to outdoor spider mites are major health problems worldwide. The sensitization route to spider mites has not yet been well elucidated. We examined the microstructure of faecal pellets and silk of the two-spotted spider mite, Tetranychus urticae, using a field emission scanning electron microscope. Black and white pellets of the two-spotted spider mites faeces contain a large amount of plant pigment waste products. Black faecal pellets are strawberry-shaped. White faecal pellets are silken threads. These pellets are likely to be the source of allergens of relevant mites because desiccated faeces particles probably disintegrate and become incorporated into dust particles more readily than whole bodies or encased internal organs. We conclude that the importance of spider mites in respiratory allergy needs emphasis.