A "chigger" is the larval stage of which type of organism?

A chigger is indeed the larval stage of a mite. This class of arthropods includes a wide variety of organisms, some of which are known to be parasites. Chiggers, specifically, are the larvae of the Trombiculidae family of mites and are known for causing skin irritation and discomfort when they feed on the skin of mammals, including humans. They are often found in grassy and wooded areas, particularly in areas with rich vegetation, which is where they are most active. Understanding the lifecycle and classification of these organisms is critical for anyone involved in environmental health, particularly in pest management and disease control, as they can be vectors for infections and cause allergic reactions in sensitive individuals.