Bug Identifier
Pinworm
Community identification

Pinworm

Enterobius vermicularis

Order & Family
Order: Rhabditida, Family: Oxyuridae
Size
Males: 2–5 mm; Females: 8–13 mm
See this bug in the Encyclopedia

Natural Habitat

The human large intestine; they are obligate parasites found globally.

Diet & Feeding

Pre-digested material, bacteria, and epithelial cells within the human intestine.

Behavior Patterns

Nocturnal migration where gravid females travel from the colon to the anus to deposit eggs on the perianal skin, causing itching.

Risks & Benefits

Causes enterobiasis, characterized by intense anal itching and sleep disruption. Highly contagious within households through ingestion of eggs.