Mold Mite
Scientific Name: Tyrophagus putrescentiae
Order & Family: Sarcoptiformes: Acaridae
Size: 0.3–0.45 mm (extremely small, barely visible to the naked eye except as moving white dust)
Natural Habitat
High humidity environments with abundant organic matter, such as kitchens, bathrooms, damp basements, or stored food products.
Diet & Feeding
Primary diet consists of fungi, molds, and yeasts; also feeds on high-protein or high-fat stored foods like cheese, seeds, and grain.
Behavior Patterns
They exhibit rapid reproductive cycles in warm, moist conditions. They are often noticed when they congregate in large numbers on dark surfaces, appearing as 'walking dust'.
Risks & Benefits
They do not bite humans or pets but can cause 'grocer's itch' (allergic dermatitis) and respiratory allergies. They are pests that contaminate food stores.
Identified on: 12/27/2025