What are moose lice correctly called? - briefly
The insect often referred to as moose lice is correctly called the moose ked (Lipoptena cervi). It is a member of the Hippoboscidae family, initially winged but shedding its wings after attaching to the host.
What are moose lice correctly called? - in detail
The chewing louse that parasitizes Alces alces is correctly identified as Trichodectes melis. This species belongs to the family Trichodectidae, order Phthiraptera, and is the sole louse regularly reported on moose throughout their range in North America and Eurasia.
Taxonomic placement:
- Order: Phthiraptera (chewing lice)
- Family: Trichodectidae
- Genus: Trichodectes
- Species: melis (authority: Linnaeus, 1758)
Biology and life cycle:
- Adult lice measure 2–3 mm, are dorsoventrally flattened, and possess chewing mouthparts adapted for feeding on epidermal scales and skin debris.
- Females lay 1–2 eggs (nits) per day; each egg adheres to hair shafts near the skin surface.
- Development proceeds through three nymphal instars over 10–14 days before reaching maturity.
- Entire life cycle occurs on the host; transmission occurs through direct contact between individuals, especially during mating or mother‑calf interactions.
Host interaction:
- Infestation levels range from light (few individuals) to heavy (hundreds per animal), with heavy loads potentially causing alopecia, skin irritation, and secondary bacterial infections.
- Seasonal peaks correspond with calving periods when close contact among herd members facilitates spread.
- Control measures in captive settings rely on topical acaricides; wild populations experience natural regulation through grooming and host immunity.
Thus, the proper scientific designation for the lice found on moose is Trichodectes melis, a species of chewing louse with a well‑defined taxonomy, life history, and ecological impact on its cervid host.