Mold Mite

Natural Habitat

High humidity environments with damp organic matter, stored grains, and mold growth.

Diet & Feeding

Primarily fungal spores and hyphae (mold), but also protein and fat-rich stored foods like dried meats, cheese, and seeds.

Behavior Patterns

They congregate in large numbers where mold is present and can appear as a fine, moving white dust. They have a very high reproductive rate under humid conditions.

Risks & Benefits

They do not bite or sting but can cause skin irritation (grocer's itch) or respiratory allergies in some people. They are pests that contaminate stored food products and indicate an underlying moisture or mold issue in the home.

Identified on: 2/13/2026