Virtual Exhibit on Canada's Biodiversity





back to order Siphonaptera		 insect database

Habitat
Adults: terrestrial
Immatures: terrestrial

Feeding Habits
Adults: parasitic
Immatures: saprophagous

Size: 1 to 5 mm
Flight : strong flier

North American
Species: 14

Siphonaptera Pulicidae
Pulicid fleas

Front Wings: absent
Hind Wings: absent
Mouthparts: sucking
Antenna Length: shorter than body
Antenna Shape: straight
Front Legs: unmodified
Hind Legs: jumping

Special Characteristics: Pulicid fleas are flattened from side to side and are shiny dark brown.

Comments: This family includes most of the fleas that attack people and domestic animals, including the human flea that was once a major pest, and the cat and dog fleas that are still a major problem for pets and their owners.

Species:
Pulex irritans Linnaeus

Common Name:
Human flea

Feeding Habits: The adults feed on blood of humans and other mammals.

Distribution:
Widespread in Canada.

Comments:
With improvements in sanitation, human fleas are much less common than they once were. Most fleas found in houses today are actually cat fleas.