Scabies Mite

The epidermis (outer layer) of human skin. They prefer warm, moist areas like between fingers, wrists, elbows, armpits, and genitals.

They feed on human skin cells and lymph fluid found within the epidermis.

Female mites burrow into the upper layer of the skin to live and deposit eggs. The burrows appear as tiny, raised, grayish-white or skin-colored lines. The mites are most active at night, which correlates with intense itching.

Risks: Causes scabies, a highly contagious skin infestation characterized by intense itching and a pimple-like rash. Scratching can lead to secondary bacterial infections like impetigo. There are no known ecological benefits.