Bug Identifier
Clover Mite
Community identification

Clover Mite

Bryobia praetiosa

Order & Family
Order: Trombidiformes / Family: Tetranychidae
Size
0.75 mm to 0.85 mm (about the size of a pinhead)
See this bug in the Encyclopedia

Natural Habitat

Typically found in grassy lawns, clover-rich landscapes, and occasionally invading homes through windows and doors.

Diet & Feeding

Herbivorous; they feed on more than 200 plant species, including grasses, clover, and ornamental plants.

Behavior Patterns

They are most active during the spring and fall. They are known for their extremely long front legs, which are often mistaken for antennae. They reproduce parthenogenetically (without males).

Risks & Benefits

They do not bite humans or pets and do not transmit diseases. Their primary risk is aesthetic; if crushed on surfaces like curtains or carpets, they leave a reddish stain from their body pigments.