Clover Mite

Scientific Name: Bryobia praetiosa

Order & Family: Order Trombidiformes, Family Tetranychidae

Size: 0.75 mm - 0.9 mm (about the size of a pinhead)

Clover Mite

Natural Habitat

Typically found in well-fertilized lawns, on grassy areas, and around the foundations or siding of buildings.

Diet & Feeding

Herbivorous, feeding on the juices of over 200 species of plants, especially lawn grasses and clover.

Behavior Patterns

They are most active in spring and fall. They often enter homes in large numbers through windows and wall voids, though they do not breed indoors. They reproduce via parthenogenesis (without males).

Risks & Benefits

They are a nuisance pest but do not bite humans or pets and do not transmit disease. They can leave a reddish stain if crushed on surfaces like curtains or carpets.

Identified on: 6/4/2026