How long do fleas live? - briefly
Adult fleas live roughly two to three weeks while feeding on a host, but in a protected indoor environment the complete life cycle can last two to three months. Eggs hatch within 2–5 days, larvae mature in 1–2 weeks, and pupae may remain dormant for several weeks before emerging.
How long do fleas live? - in detail
Fleas progress through four stages: egg, larva, pupa, and adult. The entire development cycle can be completed in as little as two weeks under optimal temperature (25‑30 °C) and humidity (70‑80 %). Cooler or drier conditions extend each phase, sometimes prolonging the cycle to several months because pupae remain dormant until favorable conditions return.
Adult females lay 20–50 eggs per day, depositing them on the host’s fur or in the surrounding environment. Eggs hatch within 24–36 hours, releasing larvae that feed on organic debris and adult flea feces. Larvae mature into pupae after 5–11 days, then enter a protective cocoon. The adult stage is the only feeding phase; adults survive by consuming blood.
In a stable environment with regular blood meals, adult fleas live approximately 2–3 weeks. If a host is continuously available, some individuals may survive up to 4 weeks. Without a blood source, mortality rises sharply after 48–72 hours. Extreme temperatures reduce lifespan: exposure to temperatures above 35 °C or below 10 °C can kill adults within a few days.
Key factors influencing longevity:
- Host availability: Continuous feeding prolongs adult survival.
- Temperature: Optimal range (20‑30 °C) maximizes lifespan; extremes shorten it.
- Humidity: High relative humidity (≥70 %) supports development; low humidity desiccates larvae and adults.
- Nutrition: Blood quality affects reproductive output and adult vigor.
Overall, the flea’s life expectancy is limited to a few weeks for adults, while the complete life cycle—from egg to mature adult—varies from two weeks to several months depending on environmental conditions.