Scabies Mite

Scientific Name: Sarcoptes scabiei var. hominis

Order & Family: Order: Sarcoptiformes, Family: Sarcoptidae

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

Scabies Mite

Natural Habitat

The epidermis (upper layer) of human skin, where they burrow to live and lay eggs.

Diet & Feeding

Feeds on human skin cells and fluids within the burrowed tunnels.

Behavior Patterns

These mites are obligate parasites that burrow into the skin, creating tunnel-like tracks (burrows). They are most active at night, which is when itching intensifies. Without a host, they can only survive for 2-3 days.

Risks & Benefits

Risks: Causes intense itching (pruritus) and a pimple-like skin rash. Scratching can lead to secondary bacterial infections like impetigo. It is highly contagious through direct skin-to-skin contact. Benefits: None known.

Identified on: 3/7/2026