A mite is a tiny arthropod belonging to the class Arachnida, which also includes spiders and ticks. These creatures are usually less than 1 millimeter in size and can be found in various environments, including soil, water, and on plants. Mites play essential roles in ecosystems, such as decomposing organic matter and serving as food for other animals. There are many types of mites, including dust mites, which are common in homes and can trigger allergies, and spider mites, which are known pests that damage crops. Most mites are harmless to humans, but some can cause skin irritations or transmit diseases to plants and animals.