Itch Mite (Scabies Mite)

The epidermis of human skin or other mammalian hosts.

The mite feeds on dissolved skin cells and extracellular fluid by secreting enzymes to liquefy skin tissue.

Adult females burrow into the upper layer of the skin (stratum corneum) to lay eggs. This burrowing activity typically increases at night and in warm conditions.

Risks: Causes scabies, an itchy skin infestation characterized by intense itching and a pimple-like rash. Benefits: None to humans; purely a parasite.