Mold Mite

Natural Habitat

Damp, humid environments with a mold presence. Found in stored food products (grains, cheese, dried fruit), detritus, and sometimes indoors in areas with moisture issues.

Diet & Feeding

Feeds on fungi, molds, algae, and decaying organic matter. Can also infest stored food products, consuming the goods themselves.

Behavior Patterns

These mites thrive in high humidity and moderate temperatures. They reproduce quickly under favorable conditions. Often seen in large congregations when an infestation is present. They are not typically active movers and are often associated with the food source.

Risks & Benefits

Risks: Can be a pest in stored food products, rendering them inedible or causing spoilage. Can cause allergic reactions (dermatitis, asthma) in sensitive individuals. Benefits: Acts as a decomposer in natural environments, breaking down organic matter. Can be used in some controlled environments for biological studies.

Identified on: 10/15/2025