Bug Identifier
Clover Mite
Community identification

Clover Mite

Bryobia praetiosa

Order & Family
Order: Trombidiformes; Family: Tetranychidae
Size
0.75 mm to 0.85 mm (smaller than a pinhead)
See this bug in the Encyclopedia

Natural Habitat

Typically found in well-fertilized lawns and on the sunny sides of buildings, but often enter homes during spring and autumn.

Diet & Feeding

Plant-feeders that suck juices from over 200 different plant species, specifically lawn grasses, clover, and ornamental plants.

Behavior Patterns

They are most active during the cooler months of spring and fall. They do not bite humans or pets but are known for leaving a reddish stain when crushed, which is their body fluid (not blood).

Risks & Benefits

They are nuisances but do not transmit diseases or feed on human food/furniture. The primary risk is the reddish staining of walls and fabrics if they are crushed inside a home.