Pinworm

Natural Habitat

The human large intestine; eggs are commonly found on clothing, bedding, and environmental surfaces in households.

Diet & Feeding

Feed on intestinal contents and mucosal cells within the human host.

Behavior Patterns

Nighttime migration where gravid females move to the perianal area to lay thousands of eggs; eggs become infectious within hours.

Risks & Benefits

Causes enterobiasis, characterized by intense anal itching. Risk of transmission is high in families and childcare settings; no known ecosystem benefits.

Identified on: 12/28/2025