
Community identification
Human scabies mite
Sarcoptes scabiei var. hominis
- Order & Family
- Order: Sarcoptiformes, Family: Sarcoptidae
- Size
- 0.30–0.45 mm long (females), 0.20–0.25 mm long (males)
Natural Habitat
The epidermis (outer layer of skin) of human hosts
Diet & Feeding
Skin cells and extracellular fluid found within the epidermis
Behavior Patterns
Females burrow into the skin to lay eggs, creating visible winding tracks; they are primarily transmitted through prolonged, direct skin-to-skin contact.
Risks & Benefits
Causes intense itching and skin rashes (Scabies); risks include secondary bacterial infections from scratching. There are no ecological benefits to humans.