How long does a flea larva live? - briefly
Flea larvae typically mature within five to seven days when temperature and humidity are optimal; in cooler or drier environments development may extend to about two weeks. After pupation they emerge as adult fleas.
How long does a flea larva live? - in detail
Flea larvae develop within the protective debris of a host’s environment—carpets, bedding, or soil. After hatching from eggs, the immature stage lasts from roughly two days to two weeks, depending on temperature and humidity. At optimal conditions (approximately 27 °C / 80 % relative humidity), development proceeds near the lower end of this interval, often completing in 48–72 hours. Cooler or drier settings extend the period, with some species requiring up to 14 days before pupation begins.
Key factors influencing the larval phase include:
- Temperature: each 10 °C increase roughly halves development time.
- Moisture: larvae desiccate quickly; sustained humidity above 70 % is essential.
- Food availability: they feed on organic debris, adult flea feces, and mold; scarcity slows growth.
- Species variation: cat‑ and dog‑fleas (Ctenocephalides felis, C. canis) follow similar timelines, whereas wild‑rodent fleas may exhibit slightly longer larval periods.
During the larval stage, individuals undergo three instars, molting between each. The final instar constructs a silken cocoon in which it transforms into the pupal form. Once the cocoon is sealed, the pupa can remain dormant for weeks or months, awaiting favorable conditions or host cues, but the larval duration itself never exceeds the two‑week maximum under natural circumstances.