Clover Mite
Bryobia praetiosa
- Order & Family
- Order: Trombidiformes; Family: Tetranychidae
- Size
- Approximately 0.75 mm to 0.85 mm (smaller than a pinhead)
Natural Habitat
Found globally; typically live on lawns, clover, grasses, and weeds. Often seen crawling on windowsills, siding, and walls, particularly on sunny sides of buildings during spring and fall.
Diet & Feeding
Herbivorous; they feed on plant sap from grasses, clovers, and other plants. They do not feed on humans or animal blood.
Behavior Patterns
They are most active in cooler weather (spring and fall). They invade homes in large numbers seeking shelter or when host plants dry up. They reproduce through parthenogenesis (females laying unfertilized eggs).
Risks & Benefits
Risks: Harmless to human health (they do not bite or sting), but are considered a nuisance pest due to large invasions. If crushed, they leave a distinct red stain on fabrics and surfaces. Benefits: Minimal specific ecosystem benefits beyond being part of the food web.