Entomology (Study of Bugs)/Very tiny white bugs

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Expert: - 8/18/2009


Question

White bugs
I have just noticed thousands of tiny white bugs all over my kitchen faucets & black appliances. they are so tiny you can barley see them which is why they stand out more on black.I am guessing that they are all over everything just can't see them.I have tried disinfecting cleaners & bug spray with pyrethrins (flea & tick spray# but nothing has worked. I have lived in this house for over 5 years, no changes, I have dogs in the house and live in the country. My sink is right by a window which has been open until recently. The rooms in my house is open #no walls) living room, dining room, & kitchen is one big room. I have not seen any of the bugs around the tv which is also black. Please help! Thank you so very much.... I am attaching some pictures.I used a magnifing glass held up to my camera bacause they are so small. this is my refrig & coffee maker.

Answer
Mindy,

I can't see much detail in the photo but your description sounds like a grain mite. Grain mites feed on mold (fungi) and can be very common in grain storage warehouses if the grain has gotten damp and moldy. They can also be very common in houses that have a moisture or mold problem (leaky pipe, wet foundation, leaky dishwasher, etc.). Look around for a source of moisture and mold and you'll find the source of the mites. Once you fix the moisture problem the mites will go away. No need to treat with insecticide. Here's an article about mites in general http://www.livingwithbugs.com/mites.html that may be useful

Jack DeAngelis, PhD
Extension Entomologist (ret.)
My website about home and garden pests: http://www.livingwithbugs.com  
    Questioner's Rating
    Rating(1-10)Knowledgeability = 10Clarity of Response = 10Politeness = 10
    CommentThank you so very much! You are the only one that gave me an answer that makes since.


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Jack DeAngelis

Expertise

I can answer questions in any area of entomology (study of insects, spiders, mites, ticks, and other terrestrial arthropods). Contact me about home and garden insects, insects that bite and sting, and insects that damage homes such as carpenter ants and termites.

Experience

20 years as university extension entomologist, now retired; currently publish a website about home and garden insects.

Publications
see www.livingwithbugs.com/resume.html

Education/Credentials
Ph.D. in Entomology

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