Community identification
Clover Mite
Bryobia praetiosa
- Order & Family
- Trombidiformes, Tetranychidae
- Size
- 0.75 mm to 0.85 mm (about the size of a pinhead)
Natural Habitat
Grassy lawns, clover patches, and the exterior/interior walls of buildings near plant matter.
Diet & Feeding
Herbivorous; they suck the juices from clover, lawn grasses, and various ornamental plants.
Behavior Patterns
Active in cool temperatures (spring/autumn), they often migrate into homes in large numbers. If crushed, they leave a distinct reddish-brown stain due to their body pigmentation.
Risks & Benefits
They are considered nuisance pests rather than biological risks; they do not bite humans or pets and do not transmit disease. They can damage indoor fabrics if crushed, leaving permanent stains.