Bug Identifier
Human Scabies Mite
Community identification

Human Scabies Mite

Sarcoptes scabiei var. hominis

Order & Family
Order: Sarcoptiformes, Family: Sarcoptidae
Size
Adult females: 0.30 to 0.45 mm long; males: half that size
See this bug in the Encyclopedia

Natural Habitat

Human skin, specifically the stratum corneum layer of the epidermis

Diet & Feeding

Human skin cells and extracellular fluid

Behavior Patterns

The female mite burrows into the skin to lay eggs; larvae hatch and move to the skin surface to mature and mate

Risks & Benefits

Highly contagious parasitic infestation causing intense itching and skin rashes; can lead to secondary skin infections like impetigo