Bug Identifier
Pinworm
Community identification

Pinworm

Enterobius vermicularis

Order & Family
Order Oxyurida, Family Enterobiidae
Size
Females are 8-13 mm long; males are 2-5 mm long
See this bug in the Encyclopedia

Natural Habitat

The human gastrointestinal tract, primarily the large intestine and rectum

Diet & Feeding

Content of the human intestine and digestive matter

Behavior Patterns

At night, gravid females migrate to the perianal area to lay thousands of eggs, which can cause intense itching (pruritus ani).

Risks & Benefits

Causes enterobiasis infection. While typically not dangerous, it leads to discomfort, itching, and sleeplessness; it is highly contagious through ingestion of microscopic eggs.