Scratching can cause bleeding and infection of open sores. Overlapping generations occur at two to three week intervals. These mites can cause epidemics of dermatitis during harvesting and post-harvesting operations in straw, hay or certain grains. Bites produce a rash-like dermatitis, extending over much of the body and accompanied by itching, sweating, fever, headache and even vomiting in severe cases. They are beneficial because they feed on larvae of wheat jointworm, rice and granary weevils, Angoumois grain moths and other pests.
Heavy infestations have a sweet or minty odor.
Sometimes the surface of infested materials appears to move due to large numbers of mites. These mites favor damp areas. They do not bite humans. These mites are found in mattresses, pillows and furniture containing natural fibers. They are scavengers that feed on human skin scales and other detritus but do not bite humans.