What are ticks that live in a mattress called? - briefly
Dust mites, primarily Dermatophagoides species, are the microscopic arachnids that inhabit mattresses. They are not true ticks but feed on shed human skin cells.
What are ticks that live in a mattress called? - in detail
Ticks that infest bedding are commonly referred to as mattress mites, a subset of the broader group known as dust mites. These arthropods belong to the order Acari and are adapted to the warm, humid environment provided by human mattresses, pillows, and upholstered furniture. Unlike the larger parasitic ticks that attach to hosts, mattress mites are microscopic, typically measuring 0.2–0.5 mm in length, and feed on shed skin cells, fungal spores, and other organic debris rather than blood.
Key characteristics of mattress-dwelling Acari include:
- Preference for temperatures between 20 °C and 25 °C and relative humidity above 50 %.
- Ability to survive for several months without a host, relying on ambient moisture and food sources within the fabric.
- Production of allergenic proteins in their feces and body fragments, which can trigger asthma, rhinitis, and dermatitis in sensitized individuals.
Identification methods:
- Microscopic examination of fabric samples collected with adhesive tape or vacuum extraction.
- Use of allergen-specific immunoassays to detect mite-derived proteins in dust extracts.
- Environmental monitoring devices that measure humidity and temperature, aiding in risk assessment.
Control strategies focus on reducing habitat suitability:
- Wash bedding weekly at temperatures of at least 60 °C.
- Employ a dehumidifier or air conditioner to maintain relative humidity below 45 %.
- Use allergen-impermeable mattress encasements that prevent mite ingress and egress.
- Vacuum upholstered items with a HEPA-filtered vacuum cleaner to remove accumulated debris.
Understanding the biology and environmental requirements of these microscopic pests enables effective mitigation, reducing exposure to allergenic particles and improving indoor air quality.