Which mite is known for burrowing under the skin?

Prepare for the Georgia Certified Structural Pest Control Operator Exam. Practice with flashcards and multiple choice questions, each question has hints and explanations. Ace your certification test!

The scabies mite is the correct answer, known scientifically as Sarcoptes scabiei. This microscopic parasite burrows into the outer layer of the skin, causing intense itching and irritation. The burrowing is a significant factor in the transmission of scabies, as the mite lives and lays eggs in the skin, which can lead to a rash and secondary infections due to scratching.

Dust mites, on the other hand, are primarily associated with allergic reactions and do not infest or burrow into human skin. They thrive in household dust and are a common trigger for asthma and allergies. The term "itch mite" often refers to a variety of mites that may cause skin irritation, but they do not specifically burrow into the skin like the scabies mite does. The chigoe flea, also known as the jigger flea, is a parasite that can embed itself in the skin, but it is not classified as a mite.

Understanding the specific behavior and characteristics of these pests is essential in pest control and public health.

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