(Glycyphagus domesticus)
Biology:
House mites are very small animals, usually less than 0.5 mm long, which have 6 legs as larvae and 8 legs in the adult stage. They belong to the arachnid family. Their body bristles are long and feathery.
The development of the house mite normally proceeds via egg, larva and various nymph stages to the adult animal. Permanent forms can often be formed that survive unfavorable living conditions for a very long time. However, if the living conditions are favorable, mass reproduction usually occurs.
Damage:
House mites are mainly found in rooms with high humidity. They feed on all kinds of substances of organic origin, especially if these have become damp and musty, preferring flour, cheese and ham.
In very damp homes, they live in beds, carpets and upholstered furniture, where the mites can multiply en masse. Contact with the mites can cause itching, skin rashes and asthma in humans.
