Summary: Mites and Mite Infestation

Characteristics of Mites:

• Belong to the arachnid family, sharing the order Chelicerata with spiders, scorpions, and ticks.
• Have eight legs and jointed fangs.
• Come in various colors, including tan, brown, black, green, blue, or bright red.

Identification and Behavior:

• Extremely tiny, ranging from 0.01 to 0.03 inches.
• Difficult to see without a microscope.
• Feed on a variety of sources, including plants, animals, and even humans.
• Some mites bite, causing itchy, red welts and painful rashes.
• Mite infestations can lead to allergic reactions.

Types of Mites:

• Bird mites, clover mites, chigger mites, demodex mites, house dust mites, flour mites, itch mites, rodent mites, scabies mites, spider mites, varroa (bee) mites, and more.

Life Cycle:

• Consists of four stages: egg, larva, nymph, and adult.
• Larvae molt several times before reaching the nymph stage.
• Nymphs molt multiple times, growing another set of legs and increasing in size.
• Adults have a short lifespan, living only several months.

Habitats:

• Mites can live in various environments, including fresh and brackish water, hot springs, soil, plants, and animals.
• Some species are pests of agricultural crops, while others are parasitic on humans and animals.

Diet:

• Varied diet depending on the species.
• Some mites feed on plant juices, fungi, blood, or bodily fluids.
• Dust mites feed on dead skin and dander.

Prevention and Control:

• Seal cracks, holes, and entrances to prevent mites from entering the home.
• Keep up with housekeeping, vacuum, and steam clean regularly.
• Control humidity below 50% to discourage mites.
• Remove potential shelters, trash, and clutter.
• Seek professional help if needed, as mite infestations can be challenging to manage.

Health Impact:

• Mite infestations can lead to allergic reactions, respiratory problems, and skin irritation.
• Some mites, like scabies mites, can cause contagious diseases.
• Pets, such as cats and dogs, may have allergic reactions to mites.

Difference from Bed Bugs and Ticks:

• Bed bugs are larger and feed on blood, while mites have varied diets.
• Ticks are generally larger parasitic bugs that bury themselves in flesh to feed on blood.

DIY Control Tips:

• Deep clean your home, especially mattresses, furniture, and carpeting.
• Lower humidity below 50% using air conditioning or dehumidifiers.
• Remove trash, clutter, and potential mite shelters.
• Regularly dust surfaces and mop floors.
• Seal entry points to prevent mites from entering.