It occurs in Europe, Asia, and Africa and is commonly confused with other red mite species.

[1] This species is one of the largest mites in northern temperate zones, with a body length of about 4 mm (just over 1⁄8 inch).

The soft, brightly red body is covered with fine hairs, giving it a velvety appearance.

Its bright red color results from carotenoids, warning predators about the toxicity of the mite (aposematism).

The specific epithet is derived from Ancient Greek ὅλος, holos, "whole" and σηρικ-, sērik-, "silken".