Bug Identifier
Pinworm
Community identification

Pinworm

Enterobius vermicularis

Order & Family
Order Oxyurida, Family Oxyuridae
Size
Females: 8-13 mm, Males: 2-5 mm in length
See this bug in the Encyclopedia

Natural Habitat

Human large intestine, primarily the cecum and appendix; eggs found on surfaces or clothing

Diet & Feeding

Feed on intestinal contents and debris within the human host

Behavior Patterns

Females migrate to the anal area at night to lay eggs, causes intense itching (pruritus ani), spreading eggs through contact

Risks & Benefits

Causes enterobiasis, leading to sleep loss and secondary infections from scratching; beneficial primarily for research on population migration