Giant Red Velvet Mite
Dinothrombium sp.
Physical Features
Giant Red Velvet Mites are visible to the naked eye growing to a length of 1/2 inch. They are covered with red, velvety fine hairs. They have eight legs.
Life Cycle
Incomplete metamorphosis
Eggs are laid and young hatches emerging with six legs rather than eight. The young will go through a series of molts reaching the adult stage and forming their fourth set of legs.
Habits
- Diet: Pests including termites.
- Activity: Mainly underground, but come above ground after monsoon rains.
- Preferred Climate: Warm, humid.
- Defense: Coloration.
- Cautions: Irritation can occur from the oils they release if on your skin, however, very rare to have human contact without human intent.
- Home Invasion: Not a typical concern since live in soil.
Helpful Hints for Control
- Keep other insect populations under control to minimize their food source.
Interesting Fact
In India, the oils of the Giant Red Velvet Mite are considered an aphrodisiac, therefore, these are often captured and sold in stores.
