Bug Identifier
House Dust Mite
Community identification

House Dust Mite

Dermatophagoides pteronyssinus

Order & Family
Order: Sarcoptiformes, Family: Pyroglyphidae
Size
0.2–0.3 mm (micrometers)
See this bug in the Encyclopedia

Natural Habitat

Indoor environments, specifically carpets, mattresses, and upholstered furniture

Diet & Feeding

Feed on dead human and animal skin cells

Behavior Patterns

Microscopic arachnids that thrive in humid environments; they produce multiple waste pellets daily and are invisible to the naked eye.

Risks & Benefits

Significant cause of indoor allergens, triggering asthma and allergic reactions; no benefit to humans.