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Home > Bugs > Bugs of Home and Structures > Clover Mites

Clover Mites—Bryobia praetiosa

 

Clover mites are very tiny arachnids that live and reproduce outdoors, but are frequently encountered as a household pest in early summer and in the fall when they migrate into dwellings by mistake. Clover mites are harmless. They cannot bite or sting; they do not infest stored foods; they cannot attack the house structure or furnishings. They are an annoyance and nuisance because of their tremendous numbers. Clover mites are plant feeders only, they feed on sap from grasses and clover, and are especially numerous in lawns with a heavy growth of succulent, well-fertilized grass. They do not cause any apparent harm to turfgrass.

clover mite adult clover mite adult close-up of clover mite
Clover mites are 1/64 inch long, soft, oval, and flattened from top to bottom. They vary in color from rusty brown to dark red. A distinguishing characteristic is the very long pair of front legs that extend forward like antennae as the mites crawl.

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Identification and Control Information (each will open in a new window)

 

 

[Photos, left to right: Rayanne Lehman, Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture, Bugwood.org; Rayanne Lehman, Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture, Bugwood.org; Gary Alpert, Harvard University, Bugwood.org]

 
It is the policy of the State of Maine to minimize reliance on pesticides. The Maine Department of Agriculture and the Maine IPM Council encourage everyone to practice integrated pest management and to use pesticides only as a last resort. The mention of pesticides in the fact sheets linked to these pages does not imply an endorsement of any product. Be sure that any product used is currently registered and follow all label directions.