Community identification
Human Itch Mite
Sarcoptes scabiei var. hominis
- Order & Family
- Order: Sarcoptiformes, Family: Sarcoptidae
- Size
- Adult females are approximately 0.30 to 0.45 mm long; males are about half that size.
Natural Habitat
Human skin, specifically within the stratum corneum (outermost layer)
Diet & Feeding
Digested skin cells and extracellular fluid
Behavior Patterns
Female mites burrow into the skin to lay eggs, creating tiny, wavy, raised lines or tracks. They are most active at night, which is when itching often intensifies.
Risks & Benefits
Causes Scabies, a contagious skin infestation characterized by intense itching and a pimple-like rash. Untreated, it can lead to secondary skin infections like impetigo from scratching. It has no ecological benefits to humans.