Ear Mite
Otodectes cynotis
This record describes Otodectes cynotis (species). Recorded family: Psoroptidae. Recorded order: Astigmata.
Identification and Appearance
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Arachnida
- Order
- Astigmata (Astigs)
- Suborder
- Psoroptidia
- Superfamily
- Analgoidea
- Family
- Psoroptidae
- Genus
- Otodectes
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
ear canal
Geographic Range
Cosmopolitan
Diet and Behavior
Diet: Reported from dogs, cats, foxes, and ferrets
Life History
complete in 18-28 days
Additional species information
Species notes from the sources
Etymology: Otodectes cynotis (Hering 1838)
About Astigs: the wider group
Order-level background for Astigmata, the group containing Otodectes cynotis. Species-specific details appear above.
Group overview
Astigmata includes ~6,000 described species of mites, including dust mites, scabies mites, and cheese mites. House dust mites (Dermatophagoides) are present in virtually every human dwelling.
Ecological role of the group
Astigmatid mites are important decomposers of organic matter and recyclers of nutrients. Many species are phoretic - hitching rides on insects to reach new food sources like decaying material, stored grain, and animal nests.
Economic and practical significance of the group
Dust mites are the primary trigger for allergic asthma - affecting ~300 million people worldwide (WHO). The scabies mite causes an estimated 200 million cases of scabies globally. The global allergy treatment market partly driven by dust mites exceeds $25 billion.
Recorded sources for this group: WHO, allergy research, medical acarology. Imported estimates may describe particular regions or reporting periods.
Photos of Ear Mite (5)
Photo credits: Contributed by Ray Fisher; Additional contributions by Beatriz Moisset , v belov
Frequently Asked Questions About Ear Mite
Where is Ear Mite found?
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Habitat | ear canal |
| Range | Cosmopolitan |
What does Ear Mite eat?
The diet of the Ear Mite includes Reported from dogs, cats, foxes, and ferrets.
What is the life cycle of a Ear Mite?
complete in 18-28 days