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Siphonaptera - fleas

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Flea
Pulicidae
1/32 in.

The fleas are small ectoparasites on the bodies of animals. Adult fleas are wingless and have piercing-sucking (tube-like) mouthparts. Their larvae have chewing mouthparts. Flea metamorphosis is complete. The larvae resemble small maggots and live in the soil or near the bedding of their hosts.

A good way to collect fleas from a dog or cat is to use a fine-toothed flea comb. Dusting pyrethrum powder on pets as they stand over a white cloth or paper or bathing with flea soap also may yield good collecting. Fleas drop off the animals and are picked up easily.

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Purdue Extension Entomology, 901 West State Street, West Lafayette, IN 47907 USA, (765) 494-4554

Department of Entomology | College of Agriculture | Extension

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