Community identification
Itch Mite
Sarcoptes scabiei
- Order & Family
- Sarcoptiformes / Sarcoptidae
- Size
- 0.30 to 0.45 mm long (microscopic)
Natural Habitat
The epidermis of human skin and other mammals
Diet & Feeding
Skin cells and extracellular fluid
Behavior Patterns
Female mites burrow into the upper layer of the skin (stratum corneum) to lay eggs, creating serpentine tunnels. They are most active at night.
Risks & Benefits
Causes scabies, characterized by severe itching and rashes. Risks include secondary bacterial infections from scratching. There are no ecological benefits to humans.