Phthiraptera
Phthiraptera
Phthiraptera (pronounced: /fthɪˈræptərə/) is an order of insects that includes the parasitic lice. The name is derived from the Greek words "phthir" (meaning louse) and "aptera" (meaning wingless), which accurately describes these insects.
Etymology
The term "Phthiraptera" is derived from the Greek words "phthir" and "aptera". "Phthir" translates to "louse" in English, while "aptera" means "wingless". This name is fitting as all members of the Phthiraptera order are wingless and parasitic.
Description
Phthiraptera are small, wingless insects that are ectoparasites of birds and mammals. They are commonly known as lice. There are approximately 5,000 species of Phthiraptera, divided into four suborders: Anoplura (sucking lice), Rhynchophthirina (elephant lice), Ischnocera (bird lice), and Amblycera (chewing lice).
Life Cycle
The life cycle of Phthiraptera consists of three stages: egg, nymph, and adult. The female louse lays eggs, known as Nits, on the host's hair or feathers. These eggs hatch into nymphs, which molt three times before becoming adults. Adult lice feed on the blood or skin of their host and can cause intense itching and discomfort.
Related Terms
- Ectoparasite: An organism that lives on the outside of its host and feeds off it.
- Nits: The eggs of lice.
- Anoplura: A suborder of Phthiraptera, commonly known as sucking lice.
- Rhynchophthirina: A suborder of Phthiraptera, known as elephant lice.
- Ischnocera: A suborder of Phthiraptera, known as bird lice.
- Amblycera: A suborder of Phthiraptera, known as chewing lice.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Phthiraptera
- Wikipedia's article - Phthiraptera
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