Bug Identifier
Itch mite (Sarcoptes scabiei variant)
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.
See this bug in the Encyclopedia

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.