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)
Natural Habitat
Lawns, grassy areas, and clover patches; often found on sunny surfaces like walls and windowsills.
Diet & Feeding
Herbivorous, feeding on plant juices from over 200 different plant species including grasses and clover.
Behavior Patterns
Active in spring and fall; they often mass migrate toward houses in search of warmth or shelter. They are notable for their exceptionally long front legs.
Risks & Benefits
They do not bite humans or pets and do not transmit disease. They are primarily a nuisance pest; if crushed, they leave a persistent red stain on surfaces like fabric or wallpaper.