Scabies Mite

Scientific Name: Sarcoptes scabiei var. hominis

Order & Family: Order: Sarcoptiformes, Family: Sarcoptidae

Size: Microscopic; Adult females are roughly 0.30–0.45 mm long and 0.25–0.35 mm wide; males are slightly smaller.

Scabies Mite

Natural Habitat

The epidermis (upper layer) of human skin; they cannot survive for long periods (more than 48-72 hours) away from the human host.

Diet & Feeding

They feed on dissolved human tissue, but do not suck blood.

Behavior Patterns

These mites are obligate parasites that burrow into the top layer of skin to lay eggs. This burrowing triggers an intense allergic reaction (itching) in the host. The life cycle from egg to adult takes about 10–14 days.

Risks & Benefits

Risks: They cause Scabies, a highly contagious skin infestation characterized by intense itching and a pimple-like rash. Secondary bacterial infections (like impetigo) can occur due to scratching sores. Benefits: None.

Identified on: 2/8/2026