Scalemite

Scalemites are tiny, parasitic mites that specifically target dragonkin, infesting almost every kind across all continents except Frostcrest. These resilient pests have even adapted to infest aquatic dragonkin species, showcasing their ability to thrive in diverse environments.
Upon finding a host, scalemites attach themselves securely at the edge of the dragonkin's scales, burrowing just beneath the epidermis to establish a feeding site. They primarily consume the fat cells that lie just beneath the skin's surface, leading to nutritional depletion in their hosts in severe cases. The feeding sites of these mites also pose additional dangers such as allowing fungal spores to take root, which can result in a debilitating condition known as Scale Blight. Moreover, scalemites can act as vectors for various viruses, transferring harmful pathogens from one dragonkin to another.

Basic Information

Anatomy

All types of scalemites exhibit a distinctive reddish-brown coloration. Their bodies process a flat, button-like shape, making them uniquely adapted to their environments. On average, these mites measure approximately 2.5 mm in length and 3 mm wide. Each scalemite has eight legs.
Scalemites lack eyes; however, they are not entirely devoid of sensory capabilities. They possess specialized sensory organs located on their chelicerae,^[3] which help them perceive environmental stimuli. The curved shape of their bodies allows them to maneuver into tight spaces, enabling them to fit just beneath the edges of some scaleplates, where they feed.
For non-aquatic adult species, respiration occurs through a pair of spiracles^[4] positioned laterally on their bodies. These tiny openings play a crucial role in allowing air to enter their respiratory systems. In contrast, adult aquatic scalemites are easily identified by two distinct folds at the top of their carapace. These folds function as gills, facilitating the absorption of oxygen directly from the surrounding water. Scalemite nymphs are so small they absorb oxygen through their soft carapce, allowing nymphs of both terrestrial and aquatic variants to survive submerged in water.

Genetics and Reproduction

Scalemites exhibit a unique method of reproduction known as parthenogenesis^[5], meaning that their eggs develop without the need for fertilization, resulting in scalemites being entirely female. Scalemites typically lay only a few number of eggs at one time, with only a few not successfully hatching.
The laying process is quite strategic: scalemites will deposit their eggs onto the site they are currently feeding on. This ensures the best possible chances of survival for the newly hatched young. Young scalemites cannot break the dragonkin skin, so by placing their eggs in an area where a feeding site has already been established, the offspring are more likely to thrive once they emerge.
After the eggs have hatched, the adult scalemite detaches itself from the area to find a new location, either on the current host or on a new one. This behavior ensures that the young have a reliable food source and are not overcrowded by the adult mite.

Growth Rate & Stages

After the eggs are laid, they take a few days to hatch. After which, the protonymph emerges and stays in the spot where the egg was laid. They feed on the spot and molt a couple of times before becoming an adult.
The development time from egg to adult is about 12-14 days. After reaching adulthood, they can burrow under the edge of dragonkin scaleplates by themselves and parasitically feed. Halfway through its two-month lifecycle, the scalemite will lay eggs.

Treatment

If dragonkin are found to have scalemites burrowed beneath their scales, the recommended treatment involves the application of a thick layer of petroleum jelly to the affected areas. This method works by creating an airtight seal that suffocates the mites, effectively disrupting their ability to breathe. It is important to note this only works on adult scalemites, as nymphs are small enough to absorb oxygen through their soft bodies.
Alternatively, the dragonkin can submerge themselves in water as a means of treatment. However, scalemites are remarkably resilient; they can withstand being submerged for up to a day. For dragonkin suffering from a severe infestation, the treatment process can take several weeks or even months for all eggs to hatch and the nymphs to grow into adults. It is not advised to use sulfur powder mixed with petroleum jelly on severely affected dragonkin, as it will burn the open wounds from established scalemite feeding sites.
Interestingly, one dragonkin species that appears to not be affected by scalemites is the Shimmerhorn. This species spends a prolonged amount of time in the mineral-rich hot spring waters of the Glistening Meadows. They can spend enough time in or out of the water to eliminate both terrestrial and aquatic variants of the scalemite. The Glistening Meadows is also a secluded location, which likely contributes to their resistance against these parasites.
For aquatic dragonkin, spending extended periods out of the water can prove to be an effective method for suffocating and dehydrating the scalemites. Nevertheless, this strategy can present challenges for these creatures, as even the aquatic scalemites are capable of surviving for a considerable time out of the water. As a more effective solution, many aquatic dragonkin have developed symbiotic relationships with certain species of fish. These symbiont fish actively feed on scalemites and other parasites, helping to maintain the health and hygiene of their dragonkin companions while minimizing the risk of infestation.

Prevention

To prevent scalemites from attaching to dragonkin, it is essential to ensure that they are regularly bathed using a mild cleanser. Additionally, frequent checkups by a qualified dragonkin specialist will help monitor their overall health and identify any potential issues early on. For dragonkin in the wild, scalemites aren't inherently fatal themselves, aside from potentially transmitting viruses. However, scalemites also create small open wounds in the skin, which serve as entry points for other pathogens, including a fungus that causes Scale Blight. This particular condition can prove to be devastating and is often fatal if not treated.
For aquatic dragonkin, the primary prevention method against scalemites and similar parasites lies in the presence of symbiont fish. These fish have adapted to coexist with larger aquatic animals, actively feeding on mites and parasites that attach to their hosts' skin.

Scientific Classification

Arthropod

Lifespan

2 months

Average Length

2.5 mm long
3 mm wide

Body Tint, Colouring and Marking

Reddish-brown

Geographic Distribution

• Azlov

Trivia

Scalemites were inspired by clover mites^[1] and a mite that infests honey bees.^[2]

The treatment was inspired by the method for treating scaly leg mites in chickens.^[6]

References

1. "Clover mite" — on Wikipedia; August 8, 2024.
2. "Varroa destructor" — on Wikipedia; October 21, 2024.
3. "Chelicerae" — on Wikipedia; July 25, 2024.
4. "Spiracle (arthropods)" — on Wikipedia; November 12, 2024.
5. "Parthenogenesis" — on Wikipedia; November 28, 2024.
6. "Scaly Leg Mites in Chickens" — on The Chicken Chick; October 10, 2023.