This microscopic creature has lived on your face for years; now scientists say it's almost out of genes
Tiny mites living in our hair follicles are rapidly losing genes, suggesting they may soon exist only on humans. These microscopic arachnids, found in over 90% of people, have adapted to a sheltered life, leading to unusual features and behaviors. While mostly harmless and potentially beneficial, their declining genetic diversity points towards a unique evolutionary path, a phenomenon previously unseen in animals.
Tiny mites living in our hair follicles are rapidly losing genes, suggesting they may soon exist only on humans. These microscopic arachnids, found in over 90% of people, have adapted to a sheltered life, leading to unusual features and behaviors. While mostly harmless and potentially beneficial, their declining genetic diversity points towards a unique evolutionary path, a phenomenon previously unseen in animals.
