
Community identification
Itch mite (Sarcoptes scabiei variant)
Sarcoptes scabiei
- Order & Family
- Order: Sarcoptiformes; Family: Sarcoptidae
- Size
- Microscopic; females are approximately 0.30 to 0.45 mm long, males are half that size.
Natural Habitat
The epidermis (outer layer) of human skin or other mammalian skin.
Diet & Feeding
Skin cells and extracellular fluid.
Behavior Patterns
The female mite burrows into the skin to lay eggs. This burrowing and the secretions of the mites cause an intense allergic reaction.
Risks & Benefits
Causes scabies, a highly contagious skin infestation characterized by severe itching and a pimple-like rash. If left untreated, it can lead to secondary skin infections like impetigo or cellulitis due to scratching.