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Tyrophagus putrescentiae

Dorsal view of an adult female.
Ventral view of an adult female.
Ventral view of an adult male.

The mould mite Tyrophagus putrescentiae (Schrank, 1781) thrives in humid environments and feeds primarily on fungi, mould, and decomposing organic matter. While it is often found in stored products like grains, cheese, and dried fruits, it can also infest agricultural and industrial settings. In addition to being a potential pest in food storage, T. putrescentiae serves as a food source for certain predatory mites, making it useful in the mass rearing of biological control agents.

All images © Keshi Zhang