Dog Flea (or Cat Flea)

Found globally in domestic environments, specifically living on the bodies of host animals (dogs, cats, humans) and in their bedding/carpets.

Obligate hematophages; adults feed exclusively on the blood of mammals and birds. Larvae feed on organic debris and adult flea feces ('flea dirt').

Flightless but capable of jumping long distances. They undergo complete metamorphosis (egg, larva, pupa, adult). They are most active in warm, humid conditions and remain on the host to mate and feed.

Risks include skin irritation (flea allergy dermatitis), transmission of tapeworms (Dipylidium caninum), and potential transmission of bacterial diseases such as murine typhus. They offer no known benefits to the ecosystem or humans.