Human Itch Mite (Symptoms of Scabies)

Scientific Name: Sarcoptes scabiei var. hominis

Order & Family: Order: Sarcoptiformes, Family: Sarcoptidae

Size: Microscopic; females are approximately 0.30–0.45 mm long, males are half that size.

Human Itch Mite (Symptoms of Scabies)

Natural Habitat

Burrows exclusively within the upper layer (stratum corneum) of human skin.

Diet & Feeding

Feed on skin cells and extracellular fluid/serum found in the cutaneous burrows.

Behavior Patterns

Female mites burrow into the skin to lay eggs. This causes an allergic reaction resulting in intense itching, particularly at night. Transmission occurs via direct, prolonged skin-to-skin contact.

Risks & Benefits

Causes Scabies, a contagious skin infestation characterized by severe itching and rashes. Risks include secondary bacterial infections (like impetigo) from scratching. There are no known benefits.

Identified on: 5/2/2026