
Community identification
Mold Mite
Tyrophagus putrescentiae
- Order & Family
- Sarcoptiformes / Acaridae
- Size
- 0.3 - 0.45 mm (extremely small, often appearing as tiny white specks or dust)
Natural Habitat
Damp environments with high humidity (above 60%) where mold or fungi grow; commonly found in kitchens, pantries, and bathrooms.
Diet & Feeding
Primarily feeds on mold, fungi, and biological films; can also infest high-protein stored foods like seeds, grains, and dried meats.
Behavior Patterns
They congregate in large numbers on moist surfaces. While they do not fly or jump, they can be spread by air currents or by hitchhiking on larger insects and animals.
Risks & Benefits
They do not bite or sting, but high populations can cause skin irritation ('grocer's itch') or allergic reactions/asthma in sensitive individuals. They indicate a moisture problem that needs to be addressed.