Clover Mite

Scientific Name: Bryobia praetiosa

Order & Family: Order: Trombidiformes; Family: Tetranychidae

Size: Typically smaller than a pinhead; approximately 0.75 mm to 0.85 mm long.

Clover Mite

Natural Habitat

Typically found outdoors on lawns, plants, and rocks, but often invade homes through windows and doors, especially on sunny sides of buildings. They prefer grassy areas and are commonly seen on concrete or siding.

Diet & Feeding

Herbivorous; they feed on plant juices from clover, grasses, lawns, and ornamental plants.

Behavior Patterns

They are most active in cooler weather (spring and fall). They are known to congregate in large numbers on sun-warmed walls and inside homes during temperature extremes. They do not bite or sting.

Risks & Benefits

Risks: Harmless to human health (they do not bite or spread disease), but are a nuisance pest indoors. If crushed, they leave a distinct red stain on fabrics and walls. Benefits: None significant to humans, though they are part of the ecosystem as prey for other mites.

Identified on: 3/4/2026