Community identification
Human Itch Mite
Sarcoptes scabiei var. hominis
- Order & Family
- Order: Sarcoptiformes; Family: Sarcoptidae
- Size
- Microscopic; females are approximately 0.30 to 0.45 mm long, males are about half that size.
Natural Habitat
The epidermis (human skin), specifically burrowing into the stratum corneum.
Diet & Feeding
Feeds on skin cells and extracellular fluid/serum within the host's skin.
Behavior Patterns
The female mite burrows into the upper layer of the skin to lay eggs. This triggers an allergic reaction in the host. The life cycle involves egg, larva, nymph, and adult stages, occurring entirely on the human host.
Risks & Benefits
Causes Scabies, characterized by intense itching and a pimple-like rash. Highly contagious through direct skin-to-skin contact. Risks include secondary bacterial skin infections (like impetigo) due to scratching; there are no known benefits.