
Community identification
Clover Mite
Bryobia praetiosa
- Order & Family
- Trombidiformes: Tetranychidae
- Size
- 0.75 mm - 0.85 mm (about the size of a pinhead)
Natural Habitat
Gardens, lawns, and grassy areas; they frequently invade homes through cracks in windows or foundations during spring and autumn.
Diet & Feeding
Herbivorous; they feed on the sap of over 200 species of plants, including clover, lawn grasses, and ornamental flowers.
Behavior Patterns
They are most active in cooler temperatures. They reproduce via parthenogenesis (without mating). When crushed, they leave a distinct reddish or rusty stain caused by their body pigments.
Risks & Benefits
They do not bite humans or pets and do not cause structural damage. Their primary risk is being a nuisance pest that can stain fabrics, carpets, or walls if crushed.