Final answer:
The most abundant rodent mite found in buildings is the house dust mite. These mites feed on organic debris, including human skin, and their feces can trigger asthma attacks. They are prolific and cannot be completely eliminated, even with thorough cleaning.
Step-by-step explanation:
In response to the question about the most abundant rodent mite found in buildings, the correct answer is c) house dust mite. The house dust mite is a common inhabitant of residential spaces and feeds on organic detritus, including flakes of shed human skin. An adult dust mite's size is approximately half a millimeter, making it almost invisible without magnification. While it can be disconcerting to learn that thousands of these mites can exist in just a gram of dust, completely eradicating them from a home environment is not feasible. Additionally, for individuals with asthma, it's important to note that proteins found in the feces of house dust mites can trigger asthma attacks, making them a significant allergen in the home.
The house dust mite is depicted to be a 'mitey' monster in literature, due to its prevalence and the potential health impacts its presence can have. Unlike other mites that may inhabit homes or be associated with animals, such as the tropical rat mite or straw itch mite, the house dust mite establishes itself firmly within the dusty environments of our living spaces. Keeping a home clean may reduce their numbers but won't completely eliminate them. Knowledge of the house dust mite is crucial for managing home environments, particularly for individuals with asthma or other respiratory issues.