Fleas
Fleas (/'fli:z/)
Fleas are small flightless insects that form the order Siphonaptera. They are external parasites of mammals and birds, living by consuming the blood of their hosts.
Etymology
The term "flea" comes from the Old English "fleah", which is of Germanic origin.
Description
Adult fleas grow to about 3 mm (1⁄8 inch) long, are usually brown, and have bodies that are "flattened" sideways or narrow, enabling them to move through their host's fur or feathers. They lack wings, but have strong claws preventing them from being dislodged, mouthparts adapted for piercing skin and sucking blood, and hind legs extremely well adapted for jumping.
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 weeks to several months depending on the temperature and humidity.
Diseases Transmitted by Fleas
Fleas are vectors for a number of diseases, most notably the Bubonic Plague. They can also transmit typhus, tularemia, myxomatosis, and cat scratch disease.
Prevention and Control
Prevention of flea infestations can be achieved through regular use of flea control products such as flea collars, topical treatments, and oral medications. Environmental control can be achieved by vacuuming, washing pet bedding, and treating the environment with insecticides if necessary.
Related Terms
- Parasite
- Insect
- Vector (epidemiology)
- Bubonic Plague
- Typhus
- Tularemia
- Myxomatosis
- Cat Scratch Disease
- Flea Collar
- Topical Treatment
- Oral Medication
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Fleas
- Wikipedia's article - Fleas
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