Description

The house dust mite Dermatophagoides pteronyssinus is about half the size of a dot or full stop. The mite has no eyes, no organised breathing system, cannot drink and lives for approximately 3-4 months.

Habitat

Mites are more abundant in beds than anywhere else and easily become airborne, consequently they are easily inhaled. They are able to travel about by clinging to material, fur, feathers or anything that will give them a place to hide and a ride to a new home.

Threats

Mites have been implicated in causing dermatitis, rhinitis, respiratory tract irritation and intestinal upsets. They are also implicated in the cause and spread of asthma and other respiratory complaints.