Scabies Mite

Natural Habitat

Human skin (or other host skin), specifically burrowing into the upper layer of the epidermis.

Diet & Feeding

Feeds on skin cells (keratin) and tissue fluids of its host. Female mites burrow tunnels (burrows) in the skin to lay eggs and feed.

Behavior Patterns

Female mites tunnel into the stratum corneum (outer layer of skin), usually at night, laying 2-3 eggs per day for 4-6 weeks. Larvae hatch from eggs, mature through nymphal stages, and eventually become adults. The entire life cycle takes 10-17 days on the host. Highly contagious through direct skin-to-skin contact or, less commonly, through shared items like bedding or clothing.

Risks & Benefits

Potential Risks: Causes scabies, an intensely itchy skin infestation characterized by rash and burrows. Secondary bacterial infections can occur from scratching. In severe cases (crusted scabies), large numbers of mites can lead to widespread, thickened skin. Does not offer any known benefits to humans or the ecosystem; it is a human parasite.

Identified on: 9/4/2025