Dust Mite

Natural Habitat

Indoor environments, particularly in bedding, upholstered furniture, carpets, and clothing where human dander is plentiful.

Diet & Feeding

Primarily feed on dead human and animal skin flakes (dander).

Behavior Patterns

Dust mites thrive in warm, humid conditions. They are microscopic and not visible to the naked eye. They do not bite or burrow into skin. Their life cycle lasts about 65-100 days, during which a female lays 60 to 100 eggs.

Risks & Benefits

Potential risks include triggering allergic reactions and asthma in sensitive individuals due to their fecal matter and body fragments. There are no known direct benefits to humans or the ecosystem.

Identified on: 10/7/2025