How do floor fleas look? - briefly
Floor fleas are tiny, laterally flattened insects about 1–3 mm long, with reddish‑brown bodies and long hind legs adapted for jumping. Their antennae are short, wings are reduced or absent, and the surface appears smooth and glossy.
How do floor fleas look? - in detail
Floor fleas are minute, laterally compressed insects typically measuring 1 – 3 mm in length. Their bodies exhibit a dark reddish‑brown hue that may appear almost black when saturated with blood. The thorax and abdomen are covered with fine, rigid setae that give a slightly bristly texture, while the dorsal surface is smooth and glossy.
Key morphological features include:
- Six jointed legs, each ending in a pair of sharply curved claws adapted for gripping hair and fabrics.
- Long, slender antennae composed of 12 segments, with the distal segments bearing sensory pits for detecting host vibrations and carbon‑dioxide.
- A short, pointed proboscis capable of penetrating skin to access blood vessels; the proboscis is concealed within a protective sheath when not in use.
- Enlarged hind femora that provide powerful jumping ability, allowing the flea to launch up to 150 mm vertically.
The head is proportionally small, bearing compound eyes that are reduced in size, reflecting an adaptation to low‑light environments. Mouthparts are specialized for piercing and sucking, featuring serrated stylets that can drill through the epidermis of mammals and birds.
Exoskeletal coloration may vary slightly among species, ranging from deep mahogany to lighter tan tones, but the overall pattern remains uniform without distinct markings. The flea’s ventral side is lighter, often pale yellow, due to reduced pigmentation.
In terms of behavior, floor fleas remain motionless on the host’s fur or feathers until stimulated by heat or movement. When dislodged, they quickly seek crevices in carpets, bedding, or upholstery, where the flattened body allows them to navigate narrow spaces. Their ability to remain dormant for extended periods contributes to their persistence in indoor environments.