Follicle mites

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Demodecidae: //dɛməˈdɛsɪdiː//

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Summary

Demodecidae is a family of parasitic mites that predominantly inhabit the skin and hair follicles of various mammalian hosts. Each species tends to specialize in a particular host, and they primarily subsist on tissue and secretions. While generally harmless, a heavy infestation of these mites can lead to skin ailments.

Physical Characteristics

Demodecidae mites are small, often microscopic organisms that typically have a rounded or oval body shape. They possess four pairs of legs as adults and are generally not visible to the naked eye. Body shape and size can vary significantly among species.

Identification Tips

Identification of Demodecidae species is often based on their location on the host and microscopic examination of the body structure. Look for scaling and specific morphological traits under a microscope, particularly for identifying specific segments and features unique to each species.

Habitat

Demodecidae mites inhabit the skin and various body sites of their mammalian hosts, including hair follicles, sebaceous glands, and mucous membranes.

Distribution

Demodecidae are distributed globally, with various species being associated with specific mammal hosts on different continents.

Diet

Demodecidae feed primarily on skin cells, oils, and secretions from their host organisms. They are ectoparasites that rely on their hosts for nourishment.

Life Cycle

The life cycle includes egg, larval, nymph, and adult stages, with a strong association to their mammalian host throughout. The duration of each stage can vary significantly among species and environmental conditions.

Reproduction

Reproduction is usually through sexual means, with males and females copulating on or near their host. Females typically produce several eggs, which hatch into larvae.

Predators

The specific predators of Demodecidae are not well-documented, but they may fall prey to other mites or small arthropods.

Ecosystem Role

Demodecidae mites play a role in the ecosystem as parasites, contributing to the balance of skin flora on their host organisms. They may also impact the health of their hosts.

Economic Impact

While generally not of significant economic impact, heavy infestations can cause dermatological issues in pets and livestock, leading to potential treatments and veterinary care costs.

Health Concerns

Some species of Demodecidae, particularly Demodex folliculorum and Demodex brevis, can be associated with human skin conditions such as rosacea and blepharitis, although they are usually benign.

Collecting Methods

• Skin scrapings from mammals
• Swabs from the affected areas
• Microscopic examination of sampled areas

Preservation Methods

• Preservation in ethanol
• Mounting on glass slides with synthetic resin

Similar Taxa

• Scabies mites (Sarcoptes scabiei)
• Demodex species
• Other follicle mites

Misconceptions

It is commonly believed that everyone has Demodecidae on their skin; while many do, not all people experience issues caused by these mites. They are usually benign unless in excessive numbers.

Tags

• mites
• ectoparasites
• demodex
• skin health