Mold Mite

Scientific Name: Tyrophagus putrescentiae

Order & Family: Sarcoptiformes / Acaridae

Size: 0.3 to 0.45 mm (Often appear as tiny white moving specks or dust)

Mold Mite

Natural Habitat

High moisture environments with mold or fungi, including damp fabrics, stored food products, and decaying organic matter.

Diet & Feeding

Primarily feeds on mold, fungi, and high-protein/fat stored products like grains, seeds, and dried meats.

Behavior Patterns

They congregate in large numbers where food sources are abundant; they can produce large 'walking dust' colonies and have a rapid life cycle in humid conditions.

Risks & Benefits

Non-biting and generally harmless to structure, but can cause mild skin irritation (dermatitis) or allergic reactions in sensitive individuals; they indicate a moisture/mold problem that needs addressing.

Identified on: 1/12/2026