Community identification
Itch mite
Sarcoptes scabiei
- Order & Family
- Order: Sarcoptiformes, Family: Sarcoptidae
- Size
- 0.3 mm to 0.45 mm for females; males are roughly half that size
Natural Habitat
Human skin, specifically the stratum corneum (outer layer)
Diet & Feeding
Living skin cells and extracellular fluid of humans or other mammals
Behavior Patterns
Females burrow into the skin to lay eggs, creating wavy, thread-like tracks. They are most active at night and spread through direct skin-to-skin contact.
Risks & Benefits
Causes Scabies, a highly contagious skin infestation characterized by intense itching and rashes. If left untreated, scratching can lead to secondary bacterial infections like impetigo or cellulitis.