Mold Mite

Scientific Name: Tyrophagus putrescentiae

Order & Family: Order Sarcoptiformes, Family Acaridae

Size: 0.3–0.45 mm (extremely small, often appearing as moving white dust)

Mold Mite

Natural Habitat

Found in environments with high humidity and mold, such as damp kitchens, bathrooms, and stored food products including grains, cheese, and dried meats.

Diet & Feeding

Primarily feeds on mold, fungi, and organic matter rich in proteins and fats; they also infest stored food items.

Behavior Patterns

They congregate in large numbers where moisture is present; they have a fast life cycle and can produce large populations quickly under ideal conditions. They do not bite but can cause contamination.

Risks & Benefits

They do not bite humans or pets but can cause allergic reactions (Acarodermatitis) or respiratory issues such as asthma when inhaled. They are considered pests of stored food and indicators of a moisture or mold problem.

Identified on: 12/28/2025