Mold Mite

Scientific Name: Tyrophagus putrescentiae

Order & Family: Order Sarcoptiformes, Family Acaridae

Size: 0.3 to 0.45 mm

Mold Mite

Natural Habitat

Damp environments with high humidity, often found on moldy food, damp wallpaper, or moisture-rich storage areas.

Diet & Feeding

Primarily feeds on fungi, yeasts, and bacteria found in decomposing organic matter or high-protein food sources like seeds and grains.

Behavior Patterns

They reproduce very rapidly in humid conditions. They are most active in darkness and often appear as moving white dust particles.

Risks & Benefits

They do not bite humans or pets but can cause allergic reactions, dermatitis, or respiratory issues (grocer's itch) when present in large numbers.

Identified on: 1/30/2026