Mite

Mites are small arthropods belonging to the class Arachnida and the subclass Acari. The term "mite" refers to the members of several groups in that subclass. Mites are among the most diverse and successful of all the invertebrate groups. They have exploited an incredible array of habitats, and because of their small size, go largely unnoticed. Many live freely in the soil or water, but there are also a large number of species that live as parasites on plants, animals, and some that feed on mold.

Classification

Mites are invertebrates with two main body parts, eight legs, no antennae and are members of the subclass Acari (also known as Acarina) of the class Arachnida, which also includes spiders and scorpions. They are related to ticks and there are over 48,000 species of mites.

Habitat and behavior

Mites are found in nearly every habitat in the world. They are tiny, often microscopic animals, and they inhabit the deepest, darkest soils to the loftiest mountain peaks, the broadest deserts, and the wettest tropical rain forests. Some mites are incredibly tough, able to withstand both freezing and boiling temperatures.

Impact on humans

Mites are tiny, almost invisible, and generally harmless to humans, but they can cause a variety of problems. Some species of mites are human parasites, such as the Scabies mite and the Demodex mites. Other mites are known to be vectors of diseases, such as the mites that transmit Lyme disease.

See also

• Dust mite
• Spider mite
• Scabies
• Demodex

Mite Resources
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