Mold Mite
Scientific Name: Tyrophagus putrescentiae
Order & Family: Order: Sarcoptiformes; Family: Acaridae
Size: 0.3 to 0.45 mm (extremely tiny and barely visible to the naked eye without magnification).
Natural Habitat
Damp environments with high humidity, often found on decaying organic matter, pantry goods, or areas with mold/fungi growth.
Diet & Feeding
Primarily feeds on mold, fungi, and high-protein/high-fat stored food products like grains, seeds, cheese, and dried meats.
Behavior Patterns
They reproduce rapidly in humid conditions. They often appear as a moving 'white dust' when present in large numbers. Their life cycle from egg to adult can be as short as 1 to 3 weeks.
Risks & Benefits
They do not bite humans or pets but can cause 'grocer's itch' (allergic skin irritation) and respiratory issues if inhaled. They are considered pests as they contaminate food supplies.
Identified on: 6/5/2026