Scabies Mite

Natural Habitat

Skin of mammalian hosts, including humans. They burrow into the upper layer of the epidermis.

Diet & Feeding

Skin cells, lymph, and tissue fluids of their host.

Behavior Patterns

Female mites burrow into the skin to lay eggs (2-3 per day for 4-6 weeks) and deposit fecal matter, which causes intense itching. Larvae hatch and develop into nymphs and then adults, completing their life cycle in about 10-17 days. They are primarily active at night.

Risks & Benefits

Potential risks: Causes scabies, a highly contagious skin infestation characterized by severe itching, especially at night, and a pimple-like rash. Untreated infections can lead to secondary bacterial infections from scratching. No known benefits.

Identified on: 10/29/2025