Bug Identifier
Pinworm
Community identification

Pinworm

Enterobius vermicularis

Order & Family
Order: Oxyurida, Family: Oxyuridae
Size
Adult females are approximately 8-13 mm long; males are smaller, about 2-5 mm.
See this bug in the Encyclopedia

Natural Habitat

The primarily habitat is the human gastrointestinal tract, specifically the large intestine and rectum.

Diet & Feeding

They feed on intestinal contents and mucosal secretions within the human host.

Behavior Patterns

Female worms migrate out of the anus at night to deposit thousands of eggs on the surrounding skin, which often causes intense itching (pruritus ani). Infection occurs via the fecal-oral route.

Risks & Benefits

Risks include intense itching, disturbed sleep, and irritability. While generally not dangerous, heavy infestations can lead to secondary skin infections from scratching. They provide no known benefits to the host.