Fact sheet house dust mite
Designation: | House dust mite (scientific term: Dermatophagoides = skin eater) |
Subclass: | Mites (Acari) |
Phylum: | Arthropods |
Species: | 50,000 different species worldwide |
Most relevant species: |
Tick, house dust mite (Dermatophagoides), scabies mite |
Size: | 0,1 – 0,4 mm |
Weight: |
approx. 3µg (micrograms) |
Colour: | jtranslucent, milky-white or orange, depending on species |
Age: | 30 - 100 days (under best conditions) |
Preferred climate: |
Temperatures from 15-32°C°, humidity 70-80% |
Habitat: |
Mattresses, blankets, pillows, upholstered furniture, carpets, curtains, clothing, stuffed animals |
Mating cycle: |
May - October |
Activity: | 24h |
Favourite Food: | dead animal and human dander |
Nat. enemies: |
Silverfish & book scorpion |
Special feature: |
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