Community identification
Human Itch Mite
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
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.