Human Itch Mite

Scientific Name: Sarcoptes scabiei var. hominis

Order & Family: Order: Sarcoptiformes, Family: Sarcoptidae

Size: 0.3 to 0.45 mm for females; males are roughly half that size

Human Itch Mite

Natural Habitat

Human skin, specifically the stratum corneum (outer layer) of the epidermis

Diet & Feeding

Shed skin cells and extracellular fluid

Behavior Patterns

Microscopic mites that burrow into the upper layer of the skin to live and deposit eggs, causing an allergic reaction and intense itching. They are transmitted through prolonged skin-to-skin contact.

Risks & Benefits

Highly contagious risk to humans, causing scabies; can lead to secondary skin infections like impetigo due to scratching. No known benefits to the ecosystem.

Identified on: 5/15/2026