Flea

Flea is a small, wingless insect that is known for its parasitic nature. Fleas are external parasites, living by hematophagy off the blood of mammals and birds.

Overview

Fleas are small flightless insects that form the order Siphonaptera. As external parasites of mammals and birds, they live by consuming the blood of their hosts. Adults are up to about 3 mm (0.12 in) long and usually brown. Bodies flattened sideways enable them to move through their host's fur or feathers; strong claws prevent them from being dislodged. They lack wings, and have mouthparts adapted for piercing skin and sucking blood and hind legs adapted for jumping. The latter enable them to leap a distance of some 50 times their body length, a feat second only to jumps made by froghoppers. Larvae are worm-like with no limbs; they have chewing mouthparts and feed on organic debris.

Life Cycle

The flea life cycle consists of four main stages: egg, larva, pupa, and adult. The entire life cycle from egg to adult takes from two to three weeks, although this can be considerably longer in cool conditions.

Flea Bites

Flea bites generally result in the formation of a slightly raised, swollen itching spot with a single puncture point at the center. The bites often appear in clusters or lines of two bites, and can remain itchy and inflamed for up to several weeks afterwards. Fleas can lead to hair loss as a result of frequent scratching and biting by the animal, and can cause anemia in extreme cases.

Prevention and Control

Prevention of flea infestations can be achieved through regular use of flea control products. There are several methods to eliminate fleas, such as using flea combs, powders, sprays, or flea collars.

See Also

• Parasites
• Insects
• Diseases transmitted by insects

References

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