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Siphonaptera

Common name:

Flea

Distribution:

Every continent except Antarctica, with the greatest diversity occurring in temperate zones

Habitat:

On the bodies of mammals and occasionally birds, also in the soil near concrete sidewalks, porches, and in shaded, damp soil under shrubs

Diet:

Suck blood from animals (adults); dust, host’s fecal matters or dead skin cells (larvae)

Number of species globally

2,500

Number of species in Hong Kong :

6

Morphology
(how to recognize them) :

-Wingless
-Laterally compressed body
-Eyes and antennae are imperceptible
-Well developed hind legs
-Piercing and sucking mouthparts

Diagram

Did you know ?

Fleas can find their hosts without good eyesight. They prefer wild animal hosts but will resort to biting people when other animals are unavailable. Adult fleas find hosts by detecting body heat, movement, vibrations caused by movement, and breathing.

Gallery

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