Scabies mites. Coloured scanning electron micrograph of two itch mites (Sarcoptes scabiei, blue) and an egg (centre) in a sample of dog skin (brown). These mites are parasitic arthropods that burrow into the skin of living animals and cause scabies. In domestic dogs and cats they are one cause of mange. Magnification: x120 when printed at 10 centimetres wide.