Clover Mite
Bryobia praetiosa
- Order & Family
- Order: Trombidiformes; Family: Tetranychidae
- Size
- Approximately 0.75 mm to 0.85 mm in length
Natural Habitat
Typically found outdoors in grasses, clovers, and other plants. They often accidentally migrate indoors during spring or autumn, appearing on windowsills, walls, or furniture.
Diet & Feeding
They feed on plant juices, primarily from clover, grasses, and various residential yard plants. They do not bite humans or pets.
Behavior Patterns
Clover mites are active during the cooler days of spring and fall. They become inactive during hot summer days and cold winter days. When crushed, they leave a distinct red stain due to their pigmentation.
Risks & Benefits
Risks: They are a nuisance pest indoors and can leave persistent red stains on fabrics and walls if crushed. Benefits: They do not bite, sting, or transmit diseases, and they serve as a minor food source for other predatory arthropods.