House dust mite (Dermatophagoides pteronyssinus) Science Image

Ref: s01103bux



House dust mite. Coloured scanning electron micrograph (SEM) of a house dust mite (Dermatophagoides pteronyssinus). Millions of dust mites inhabit the home, feeding on shed skin cells. They mainly live in furniture, and are usually harmless. However, their excrement and dead bodies may cause allergic reactions in susceptible people. Magnification: x150 at 6x7cm size