Mold Mite
Scientific Name: Tyrophagus putrescentiae
Order & Family: Order Sarcoptiformes; Family Acaridae
Size: 0.3 - 0.5 mm (microscopic to barely visible)
Natural Habitat
Damp environments with high humidity, kitchens, bathrooms, and stored food products
Diet & Feeding
Feed on fungi, mold, yeast, and organic matter rich in protein and fat
Behavior Patterns
Rapid reproduction in warm, moist conditions; often seen as a moving white dust on surfaces
Risks & Benefits
Non-biting, but can cause allergic reactions, dermatitis, and respiratory issues; indicates a hidden mold problem
Identified on: 3/5/2026