Chorioptes bovis: Chorioptic mite.

General Description: They resemble Psoroptes mites, but are somewhat smaller and live on the lower part of body and legs; they do not infest all areas of host. Pretarsi are present.

Life Cycle: Typical mite life cycle.

Location: On the legs, base of tail, and upper rear surface of udder. The mites are not generally found on other parts of the body.

Geographical Distribution: Probably distributed widely but with lower incidence than other mange mite species.

Significance: Disease is not as serious as sarcoptic or psoroptic mange. Lesions are more common in autumn and winter, often disappearing in summer. There are indications of an increase in chorioptic mange. Scabs or scales develop on limited areas of the skin on lower parts of the body.

Effect on Host: Chorioptic mites feed on skin debris and lymph. There is some exudation and crust formation on the lower body and legs, but this does not spread over a wide area. Cattle may scratch infected areas.

Diagnostic Information: Finding of mites in skin scrapings examined microscopically.

Control: Miticide washes, sprays, and dips are effective in controlling this mite.

Chorioptes – female		Scanning electron microscope photo – chorioptes		Chorioptes bovis – skin lesions