Pyemotes

Pyemotes is a genus of mites in the family Pyemotidae. They are known for their parasitic behavior, often infesting various insects and spiders. Some species are also known to cause dermatitis in humans.

Description

Pyemotes mites are minute, typically less than 1 mm in length. They are elongated and somewhat worm-like in appearance. The body is soft and flexible, allowing the mite to move easily through the host's hair or feathers. The color varies from pale yellow to dark brown.

Behavior

These mites are ectoparasites, meaning they live on the outside of their host. They feed on the body fluids of their host, using their sharp mouthparts to pierce the host's skin. Some species are known to cause a condition known as Pyemotes dermatitis, which is characterized by intense itching and a rash.

Distribution

Pyemotes mites are found worldwide. They are most common in temperate regions, but can also be found in tropical and subtropical areas.

Species

There are many species of Pyemotes mites, including:

• Pyemotes ventricosus
• Pyemotes tritici
• Pyemotes herfsi
• Pyemotes johnmoseri
• Pyemotes dryas

Human impact

Some species of Pyemotes mites are known to cause dermatitis in humans. This condition, known as Pyemotes dermatitis, is characterized by intense itching and a rash. The mites are often contracted from infested grain or straw.

See also

• List of mites parasitic on humans
• Dermatitis

References

Pyemotes Resources
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