#Siphonaptera

[snakeguy999]

Fleas and robberfly for Batter

[uncharismatic-fauna]

Uncharismatic Fact of the Day

To the naked eye, there isn't much difference between a grain of sand and the sand flea! Also known as jiggers or chigoes, sand fleas are the smallest species of flea in the world at only 1 mm (0.03 in) long, although they can grow up to 1 cm (0.39 in) once buried beneath the skin of their host.

(Image: A female sand flea (Tunga penetrans) by Jorg Heukelbach)

If you like what I do, consider buying me a ko-fi!

Under the cut: A bonus image of the sand flea on someone's toe (fair warning, it is a little gross)

Source: Jorg Heukelbach

[taxonomytournament]

Taxonomy Tournament: Insects

Siphonaptera. This order is made up of fleas, small flightless insects that live as external parasites of mammals and birds, which feed on their blood.

Diptera. This order, known as the true flies, is made up of insects that fly using onle a single pair of wings. Members inclue fruit flies, houseflies, and mosquitos

[eclipsing-winter]

not me putting my whole brain into a group presentation about siphonaptera that i wont even be a part of due to doctors orders to stay at home and rest

[ratcandy]

being entomologist is also all about someone sending “my cat has fleas” in the bug group chat and everyone in there starts shouting CAN I HAVE THEM PLEASE. THE FLEAS I NEED THEM PLEASE PLEASE YOU DONT UNDERSTAND . MY GRADE

[shiveringgroovy]

gregor samsa's order

he's referred to as a dung beetle or roach most commonly, but solely off of opinion and vibes, what order do you think he was? open to any personal interpretations :)

[melinoelabs]

"Oh we're just insects to-"

"Just" insects? Just insects?

Have some self respect!

No single clade of animal has killed more humans than insects!

So the next time some 'higher being' goes about its 'mysterious ways' around you, remember your place in the universe.

Jab your insignificant proboscis through it's ineffable dermis, gorge yourself on the delicious taste that only comes from buzzing beneath the notice of the transcendent, and leave it with the only thank-you note it'll notice, that exquisite itch that says:

'Thanks for the meal and enjoy the malaria.'

[sheppi-isometrics]

⚔️ Abyssal Siphonaptera tokens on Patreon

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[tinsnip]

Siphonaptera (poem) - Wikipedia

Great fleas have little fleas upon their backs to bite 'em, And little fleas have lesser fleas, and so ad infinitum. And the great fleas themselves, in turn, have greater fleas to go on; While these again have greater still, and greater still, and so on.[2]

-Augustus De Morgan

[lurline86n]

what species can digest blood..

Many species, including insects like mosquitoes and bedbugs, as well as some mammals like vampire bats, have evolved to digest blood, a practice known as hematophagy.

Here's a more detailed look:

Insects:

Arthropods:

A wide variety of arthropods, including Diptera (mosquitoes, flies, and biting midges), Hemiptera (bed bugs and assassin bugs), Phthiraptera (sucking lice), and Siphonaptera (fleas), are hematophagous.

Mosquitoes:

Female mosquitoes require a blood meal for egg production, and they are responsible for transmitting diseases like Zika, Dengue fever, and malaria.

Bedbugs:

All species of bedbugs are blood-feeding ectoparasites.

Other insects:

Sandflies, blackflies, tsetse flies, assassin bugs, ticks, lice, mites, midges, and fleas are also known to feed on blood.

Mammals:

Vampire Bats:

Three extant species of vampire bats (Desmodus rotundus, Diphylla ecaudata, and Diaemus youngi) are known to feed exclusively on blood, with adaptations like sharp teeth and anticoagulant saliva.

Other mammals:

Some other mammals, such as the oxpecker bird, also lap up blood from wounds.

Other Animals:

Leeches:

These segmented worms are known for their blood-sucking habits.

Lampreys:

These jawless fish have round, suction-disk mouths and teeth on their tongues to scrape through skin and access blood.

Vampire moths:

Some moths, like the vampire moth (Calyptra eustrigata), have evolved to feed on blood.

Snails:

Certain snails, like Colubraria muricata, are known to suck blood from fish.

[athelind]

Siphonaptera

Great fleas have little fleas upon their backs to bite 'em, And little fleas have lesser fleas, and so ad infinitum. And the great fleas themselves, in turn, have greater fleas to go on; While these again have greater still, and greater still, and so on.

Augustus De Morgan, 1872

Long-legged velvet mite with parasitic mites attached, Callidosomatinae, Erythraeidae

Photographed in Singapore by Nicky Bay // Website // Facebook

Shared with permission; do not remove credit or re-post!

[uncharismatic-fauna]

Uncharismatic Fact of the Day

Fleas are famous for their jumping abilities, able to leap anywhere from 50-250 times their own height and take off in only a millisecond! But they don't use muscles to accomplish these feats; instead they bend a part of their exoskeleton called the pleural arch, equivalent to a human rib cage. Then the arch is released, the pent-up energy is transferred into the flea's legs like an arrow being fired from a bow and the flea rockets into the air!

To learn more, check out this slo-mo video of a flea taking flight:

(Video description: a flea jumping off a surface in slow-motion from several different angles)

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[amandi-mga2024mi5019]

Insects - Thinking Hats

White Hat

Taxonomy

Insects are a class of the Arthropoda phylum. They are actually the largest class in this phylum, with the Arthropoda phylum being one of the largest phylum under the animal kingdom.

Insects are classified as invertebrate multi-cellular organisms with a hard exoskeleton, segmented body, six legs, and generally one or two pairs of wings.

Insects generally have 3 segments: head, thorax, and abdomen.

Orders of insects:

Orthoptera - Grasshoppers, crickets and bush-crickets

Phasmida - stick-bugs

Plecoptera - stone flies

Dermaptera - earwigs

Dictyoptera - Cockroaches, termites and mantids

Embioptera - web-spinners

Grylloblattaria - rock crawlers

Mantophasmatodea - heel-walkers

Zoaptera - Zorapterans

Ephemeroptera - Mayflies or up-wing flies

Odonata - Dragonflies and damselflies

Hemiptera - true bugs

phthiraptera - Sucking and biting lice

Psocoptera - Booklice and barklice

Thysanoptera - thrips

Coleoptera - beetles

Diptera - true flies

Hymenoptera - ants, bees, and wasps

Lepidoptera - butterflies and moths

Mecoptera - scorpion flies

Megaloptera - alderflies

Neuroptera - lacewings

Siphonaptera - fleas

Raphidioptera - snakeflies

Strepsiptera - twisted wing flies

Trichoptera - Caddisflies/sedge flies

Life cycle and metamorphosis

Insects lay eggs to produce larvae. These larvae will go on to shed their exoskeleton several times over until adulthood. Some juvenile insects will change slightly after each moult and are referred to as nymphs doing this time. Other juvenile insects will only undergo large changes in their final moult (e.g: butterflies, moths). These insects often have an extra phase known as the pupa phase.

simple metamorphosis - the adult insect and juvenile insect differ very little in appearance, often the only thing separating the two is their size.

Complete metamorphosis - adult insects and their juvenile counterpart differ greatly in appearance. They often live in different habitats, and may have very different behaviour. 

Dragonfly metamorphosis

Dragonflies undergo simple metamorphosis. First, females will lay eggs in gentle still water. The dragonfly larvae will hatch underwater and is actually where they will spend most of their life. They will spend their time as larvae for up to two years. When the larvae starts reaching its final moults, they will start to live on the edge of the water and learn to breathe air. Finally the juvenile will moult for the final time and emerge from their old shell body as a dragonfly. They will then live as a dragonfly for six months before dying.

Periodical Insects

some insects have a fixed life cycle length. In these species, adults appear at one time to reproduce for once in their lives and die. The larvae will often only hatch or reach maturity years later.

Cicadas are the most famous example of this and have the longest life cycle of insects. The nymphs will live underground and feed off of the roots of trees. Finally, after 17 years, they will emerge out of the ground. Over the next few weeks the cicadas will mate, lay their eggs, and die; repeating the cycle once more.

The may beetle is another example. Their life cycle lasts either 3 years or 4-5 years depending on the region.

Winter

Different species of insects have different ways of combating winter. One such way is through migration (eg: the monarch butterfly).

Some insect species will go through the process of 'overwintering.'

Many insects successfully pass the winter as immature larvae. The protection of heavy covers of leaf litter or similar shelters protect the woolly bear caterpillar, while other insects replace the water in their bodies with glycerol, a type of antifreeze! Some grubs simply burrow deeper into the soil to escape the cold.

Not many insects are active in the winter, but the nymphs of dragonflies, mayflies and stoneflies live in waters of ponds and streams, often beneath ice. They feed actively and grow all winter to emerge as adults in early spring.

Lesser numbers of insects lay eggs which survive the winter. The most prominent insects in this category are Praying Mantids, and the destructive Corn Rootworms also engage in this strategy.

Some insects overwinter in the pupal stage, then emerge as adults in the spring. Moths in the Silkworm Family, Saturniidae, may be found attached to food plant branches as pupae in the winter.

Insects also hibernate as adults. Ladybirds are a common example. Many large wasps seek shelter in the eaves and attics of houses or barns. Tree holes, leaf litter, and under logs and rocks are common shelters for overwintering adult insects. The Mourning Cloak Butterfly is usually the first butterfly that is noticed in the Spring, and this is because it hibernates in tree holes or other shelters during the winter. As in some insect larvae, it reduces the water content of its body, and builds up glycerol which acts as an antifreeze. Honey bees stay in hives during the winter, and form clusters when temperatures fall, vibrating their wings in order to create heat.

More info

They are one of the most successful group of animals in the world, with their populations far exceeding that of any other land fauna.

They are also the most diverse group of animals on Earth, with over a million identified species.

Insects have adapted to serval different climates, and have adapted to every land and freshwater habitat.

They play a crucial role in ecosystems as pollinators, decomposers, and food sources for other animals.

They have a complex social structure in some species, like bees and ants.

Their exoskeletons provide protection and support

[joshthebugguy]

Unraveling The Mystery Of Fleas Pest Control: A Comprehensive Guide

When fleas invade your living space, they are more than just a nuisance; they are persistent pests that require proactive management. Fleas, often associated with furry companions, can infiltrate homes with remarkable ease, inflicting discomfort and potential health risks. Effectively tackling these tiny but tenacious creatures demands a thorough understanding of pest control strategies tailored to combat flea infestations.

Understanding the Flea Phenomenon

Fleas Pest Control , small wingless insects of the order Siphonaptera, are formidable adversaries in the realm of household pests. Their agile bodies and specialized mouthparts facilitate the consumption of blood from hosts, including pets and humans. These adept jumpers can leap astonishing distances relative to their size, enabling swift movement between hosts and environmental surfaces.

Lifecycle of the Flea

To devise an effective pest control plan, one must grasp the intricacies of the flea lifecycle. Fleas progress through four stages: egg, larva, pupa, and adult. Eggs laid by adult fleas fall from infested hosts onto surfaces, where they incubate into larvae. These larvae thrive in dark, humid environments, such as carpet fibers or pet bedding, where they feed on organic debris. Subsequently, larvae spin cocoons and enter the pupal stage, from which adult fleas emerge ready to seek out hosts for sustenance.

Implementing Flea Pest Control Strategies

1. Sanitation

Maintaining a clean environment is paramount in flea management. Regular vacuuming of floors, furniture, and pet bedding eliminates flea eggs, larvae, and pupae, disrupting their lifecycle. Laundering pet bedding and frequently grooming pets also mitigates flea populations.

2. Chemical Treatments

Various pest control products are available to combat fleas, including sprays, powders, and spot-on treatments. These formulations often contain insecticides targeting fleas at different stages of their lifecycle. Consultation with a pest control professional can guide the selection of appropriate products based on the severity of infestation and environmental considerations.

3. Environmental Modifications

Manipulating the environment to deter fleas can complement pest control efforts. Installing dehumidifiers reduces moisture levels, creating an inhospitable environment for flea development. Additionally, sealing entry points and repairing screens prevents flea ingress from outdoor sources.

4. Natural Remedies

For those inclined towards natural alternatives, certain substances possess pest control properties against fleas. Diatomaceous earth, a fine powder derived from fossilized algae, desiccates fleas upon contact, rendering them ineffective. Similarly, essential oils like lavender and peppermint possess repellent qualities that discourage flea activity.

The Importance of Flea Prevention

Prevention is the cornerstone of effective flea management, sparing individuals and pets from the discomfort and potential health consequences of flea infestations. Regular grooming and inspection of pets facilitate early detection of fleas, enabling prompt intervention. Furthermore, administering flea preventatives, such as topical treatments or oral medications, safeguards pets against infestation.

Seeking Professional Pest Control Assistance

In instances of severe flea infestation or persistent challenges, enlisting the expertise of pest control professionals is prudent. These professionals possess the knowledge, experience, and resources to devise tailored flea management plans, effectively eradicating infestations and preventing recurrence.

Conclusion

Fleas pose a significant pest challenge, necessitating proactive pest control measures to safeguard homes and inhabitants. Understanding the flea lifecycle, implementing integrated pest management strategies, and prioritizing prevention are crucial steps in combatting flea infestations. By adopting a multifaceted approach and seeking professional assistance when needed, individuals can effectively manage flea populations and restore peace to their living spaces.

[o-craven-canto]

Since the numbers are readable, I'll try to reconstruct a caption, too. Mind that many of these relations were later disproven. † marks extinct organisms.

A. Single unspecialized cell B. Morula (a collection of unspecialized cells sticking together) C. Blastula (morula with the formation of an hollow space) D. Gastrula (invagination of the morula to form a proto-gut and proto-mouth) E. Opening of pores in the walls of a gastrula, leading to a proto-sponge F. Gastrula with tentacles, forming a polyp G. Formation of a coelom (organ-containing cavity) in a gastrula from masses of cells, proto-mouth forming the mouth H. Trochophora ciliate larva I. Formation of a coelom from gut pouches, proto-mouth forming the anus J. Dipleurula ciliate larva

Some simple protist that I can't quite recognize

Unicellular flagellate, possibly the parasite Giardia

Paramecium (ciliate)

Naked amoeba

Thecate amoeba

Foraminiferan

Heliozoan

Radiolarian (or maybe 7. Radiolarian and 8. Heliozoan? Not sure)

Flagellate alga, something like Chlamydomonas

Volvox (colonial alga) (the other arrow from 9 goes to plants)

Sponge, probably a Calcarean sponge

Sponge, probably a Demospongian

Sponge, probably a "glassy" Hexactinellid sponge

(I don't recognize this one)

†Archaeocyatha, an extinct sponge-like organism

Colonial hydroid

Probably a Siphonophoran related to the Portuguese man-o'-war? (Looks more like a Graptolith, but that should be closer to starfish)

Jellyfish

†Tabulate coral

Colonial coral (either Octocorallia or Hexacorallia)

Solitary coral, possibly †Rugose coral

Colonial coral (the other type than 20)

Ctenophoran (comb jelly)

Probably a Turbellarian flatworm

Cestoda (tapeworm)

Probably Nematoda (roudworm)

Hirudinea (leech)

Polychaeta (ragworm)

Oligochaeta (earthworm)

Rotifera

†Trilobite

†Chasmataspidida

†Eurypterida (sea scorpion)

Xiphosura (horseshoe crab)

Scorpiones (scorpion)

Araneae (spider)

Acari (mite)

Anostraca (fairy shrimp)

Copepoda

Ostracoda (clam shrimp)

Cirripedia (barnacle)

Phyllocarida

Syncarid

Decapoda (lobster)

Amphipoda (sandhopper)

Isopoda (wood louse)

†Aysheaia

Onychophora (velvet worm)

Myriapoda (centipede)

Thysanura (silverfish)

†Palaeodictyoptera

Hemiptera? ("true bugs")

Orthoptera (grasshopper)

Phthiraptera (louse)

Lepidoptera (butterfly)

Coleoptera (beetle)

Hymenoptera (wasp)

Siphonaptera (flea)

Diptera (fly)

Polyplacophora (chiton)

Bivalvia (clam)

Prosobranchia (sea slug)

I don't recognize this one

Nudibranchia (sea slug)

Pulmonata (snail)

†Orthoceratida

Nautiloidea

†Ammonoidea

Coleoidea (squid)

Inarticulate brachiopod (Lingula)

†A presumably extinct brachiopod I don't recognize

Articulate brachiopod (Terabratula?)

Phoronida or Bryozoa

†Homalozoa (Cothurnocystis)

†Another Homalozoa

Crinoidea (sea lily)

Asteroidea (starfish)

Echinoidea (sea urchin)

Holothuroidea (sea cucumber)

Hemichordata (acorn worm)

Chaetognatha (arrow worm)

Tunicata (sea squirt)

Cephalochordata (lancelet)

†Pteraspidomorphi (Anglaspis)

Cyclostomata (lamprey)

†Placodermi (Bothriolepis)

Chodrichthyes (shark)

†Early Actinopterygian

Chondrostei (sturgeon)

Holostei (alligator gar)

Teleostei (mackerel)

†Eusthenopteron

Dipnoi (lungfish)

†Temnospondyli

Lissamphibia (newt)

Anura (frog)

Testudinata (tortoise)

†Ichthyosauria

Crocdylia (crocodyle)

Squamata (lizard)

Squamata (snake)

†Dinosauria (Triceratops)

†Pterosauria

†Therapsida (Biarmosuchus?)

Aves (seagull)

Monotremata (platypus)

Marsupialia (kangaroo)

Chiroptera (bat)

Rodentia (squirrel)

Artiodactyla (gazelle)

Carnivora (jaguar)

Cetacea (orca whale)

†Plesiadapis

Hominidae (chimpanzee)

Hominidae (human)

"Chart of Evolution" by Borgny Bay (1937), Paleontological Museum, University of Oslo.

[ultimatebugpoll]

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