
Community identification
Fleas (Larva)
Siphonaptera
- Order & Family
- Order: Siphonaptera; Families include Pulicidae
- Size
- 1.5 to 5 mm in length
Natural Habitat
Nests, bedding, carpets, and cracks in flooring of host environments
Diet & Feeding
Organic debris such as dead skin cells, hair, and the feces of adult fleas (dried host blood)
Behavior Patterns
Larvae are photophobic (avoid light) and seek deep, dark areas. They undergo three molts before spinning a silken cocoon to pupate.
Risks & Benefits
Larvae develop into adult fleas which are parasitic pests that bite humans/pets, causing itching and potentially spreading diseases like typhus or tapeworms.