Mite

Mites are tiny arachnids in the group Acari, related to ticks, spiders, and scorpions.

Mites are tiny arachnids in the group Acari, related to ticks, spiders, and scorpions. They occur in many habitats, including soil, water, plants, stored foods, and animals, and may live freely or as parasites. The term “mite” is a common name for several acarine lineages rather than a single natural group.

Taxonomy

Mites are arachnids traditionally placed in Acari alongside ticks. Recent analyses indicate that the broad group called mites does not form a single natural clade.

Physical characteristics

Mites are generally very small, often measured in fractions of a millimetre, though size varies across groups. Their body plan is acarine, with parts commonly described as a gnathosoma and idiosoma.

Habitat and ecology

Mites occur in terrestrial and aquatic habitats and can be found in soil, on plants, in houses, and on or inside animals. Their ecological roles include decomposition, predation, parasitism, and feeding on stored materials.

Importance to humans

Some mites are associated with human skin problems, allergies, or disease transmission, while others are agricultural pests or beneficial predators in gardens. House dust mites are among the best-known medically important groups.