Mold Mite
Scientific Name: Tyrophagus putrescentiae
Order & Family: Sarcoptiformes, Acaridae
Size: 0.3 to 0.45 mm

Natural Habitat
High humidity environments with organic decay, damp food products, or fungal growth
Diet & Feeding
Primary diet consists of fungi, yeasts, and bacteria found on decaying organic matter or moldy food
Behavior Patterns
These mites are prolific breeders in moist conditions; they often appear as moving 'dust' on surfaces when populations explode
Risks & Benefits
Harmless to structure but can cause skin irritation (dermatitis) or respiratory allergies in humans; they indicate an underlying moisture or mold issue
Identified on: 12/31/2025