Bug Identifier
Human Itch Mite
Community identification

Human Itch Mite

Sarcoptes scabiei var. hominis

Order & Family
Sarcoptiformes; Sarcoptidae
Size
0.3 to 0.45 mm for females; males are roughly half that size.
See this bug in the Encyclopedia

Natural Habitat

Found exclusively within the epidermal layers of human skin, particularly in areas like webbing between fingers, wrists, and elbows.

Diet & Feeding

Feeds on human skin cells and dissolved tissue fluid (extracellular fluid) created by their burrowing action.

Behavior Patterns

Fertilized females burrow into the stratum corneum of the skin, laying 2-3 eggs daily. They are most active at night, which is when the characteristic itching is most severe.

Risks & Benefits

Causes Scabies, a highly contagious skin infestation characterized by intense itching and rashes. They pose no benefits to the ecosystem and are considered a significant medical parasite.