Clover Mite

Scientific Name: Bryobia praetiosa

Order & Family: Trombidiformes, Tetranychidae

Size: 0.75 mm to 0.85 mm (smaller than a pinhead)

Clover Mite

Natural Habitat

Typically found in grassy lawns with heavy fertilization, clumping on sunny exterior walls, and entering homes through windows/doors during spring and fall.

Diet & Feeding

Herbivorous; they feed on the sap of over 200 different plant species, primarily grasses, clovers, and ornamental flowers.

Behavior Patterns

They are active during cool periods of spring and autumn. They are known for moving in large numbers toward sunny surfaces and leave a distinct red stain if crushed due to their body pigments.

Risks & Benefits

They do not bite humans or pets and do not carry diseases. They are considered nuisance pests because they can cause permanent red stains on carpets, upholstery, and curtains when crushed.

Identified on: 4/18/2026