Mite
Mite
Mite (/maɪt/), from the Old English mīte, is a term used to refer to a group of tiny arthropods in the subclass Acari which also includes ticks. Mites are among the most diverse and successful of all invertebrate groups. They have exploited a wide array of habitats, and because of their small size, go largely unnoticed.
Etymology
The term "mite" comes from the Old English mīte, which means a minute arthropod. It is related to the Dutch word mijt and the German word Milbe.
Description
Mites are typically tiny, less than 1 mm in length, and have a simple, unsegmented body plan. Their small size makes them easily overlooked; however, anyone who has been bitten by a chigger knows that the presence of mites can be quite noticeable.
Classification
Mites belong to the subclass Acari, which is characterized by a body plan that is more compact than that of other arachnids. The Acari subclass is further divided into two superorders: the Acariformes and the Parasitiformes.
Medical Significance
Some mites are parasitic on plants and animals and can cause a variety of medical conditions in humans. For example, the scabies mite (Sarcoptes scabiei) burrows into the skin, causing intense itching and skin rashes. The dust mite (Dermatophagoides spp.) is a common cause of asthma and allergic symptoms worldwide.
Related Terms
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Mite
- Wikipedia's article - Mite
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