Bug Identifier
Pinworm
Community identification

Pinworm

Enterobius vermicularis

Order & Family
Order: Oxyurida, Family: Oxyuridae
Size
Females: 8–13 mm long and 0.3–0.5 mm thick; Males: 2–5 mm long and 0.1–0.2 mm thick.
See this bug in the Encyclopedia

Natural Habitat

The human large intestine (caecum and colon); eggs are found in the perianal area and on contaminated surfaces (bedding, clothing).

Diet & Feeding

Intestinal content and mucosal cells within the human digestive tract.

Behavior Patterns

Nocturnal migration: gravid females migrate from the anus at night to deposit eggs on the perianal skin. This causes intense itching (pruritus ani), leading to scratching and further transmission.

Risks & Benefits

Risks: Causes enterobiasis (infection), leading to anal itching, irritability, and disturbed sleep. Highly contagious via fecal-oral route. Benefits: None to the ecosystem or human host; considered a parasite.