Microscopic arachnids

Mites

Acari

A highly diverse group including dust, itch, storage, bird and plant-feeding mites.

Included in this category

House Dust Mites (Dermatophagoides pteronyssinus)

Photo: US Government · Source · Public domain

Most are extremely small, with rounded bodies and eight legs as nymphs and adults. Microscopy may be needed for identification.

Habits depend on species: some live in dust, food or nests, some parasitise hosts, and others feed on plants.

Skin scales, mould, stored foods, plant fluids or animal tissue, depending on the mite.

Mites develop through egg, larval, nymphal and adult stages, often rapidly in warm humid conditions.

Itching, fine contamination in food, plant stippling, mites near bird nests or allergy symptoms linked to indoor dust.

Some cause dermatitis, allergies or product contamination; others damage plants or parasitise animals.

Prevention

Confirm the organism before selecting control measures

Remove food, water and shelter where practical

Seal or manage access points and harbourage

Use monitoring and a site-specific IPM programme

Professional support

Arrange a site-specific assessment with PCAMB.