What is the name of the linen mite? - briefly
The linen mite is Tyrophagus putrescentiae. It belongs to the family Acaridae.
What is the name of the linen mite? - in detail
The insect most frequently identified as the linen mite is scientifically named Acarus siro. It belongs to the family Acaridae and is also known by the common names grain mite or flour mite.
Acarus siro measures 0.3–0.5 mm in length, possesses a soft, white body, and lacks distinct segmentation visible to the naked eye. The species thrives in environments with relative humidity above 70 % and temperatures ranging from 15 °C to 30 °C. Moisture‑rich conditions in stored grain, flour, and damp textiles create optimal habitats, which explains its frequent association with household linens.
Key biological traits include:
- Life cycle: Egg → larva (six-legged) → protonymph → deutonymph → adult. Development from egg to adult may complete within 5–7 days under favorable conditions.
- Reproduction: Females lay 30–70 eggs over a lifespan of 2–3 weeks. Population growth accelerates when food sources such as starches, fungi, or organic debris are abundant.
- Feeding behavior: Primarily detritivorous, consuming fungal spores, pollen, and degraded fibers. In textiles, the mite feeds on residual organic matter, leading to discoloration and odor.
Economic and health implications:
- Infestation of stored products results in weight loss, reduced quality, and potential allergenic reactions in sensitive individuals.
- Damage to linen and other fabrics appears as small, irregular patches of discoloration and a musty smell, often mistaken for mold.
Control measures focus on environmental management:
- Reduce indoor humidity to below 60 % using dehumidifiers or ventilation.
- Store grain, flour, and similar commodities in airtight containers.
- Wash and dry linens at high temperatures (≥60 °C) before storage.
- Apply acaricidal powders or sprays labeled for Acaridae when infestations become severe.
Monitoring can be performed with simple sticky traps placed near suspected sources. Regular inspection combined with humidity control effectively suppresses population growth and prevents recurrence.