What do flea larvae on a dog look like? - briefly
Flea larvae are tiny, white, worm‑like creatures measuring roughly 2–5 mm, with a tapered, slightly curved body, a distinct head capsule, no legs, and fine hair covering. They reside in the dog’s environment—bedding, carpet, or floor debris—rather than on the animal’s skin.
What do flea larvae on a dog look like? - in detail
Flea larvae that develop in a dog’s environment are small, soft-bodied, and legless. They measure approximately 2–5 mm in length when fully grown, resembling tiny white or creamy worms. The body is segmented into three distinct regions: a head capsule, a thoracic region, and an abdominal region, each separated by shallow constrictions.
Key visual characteristics include:
- Color: Pale white to light cream; may appear slightly translucent when moist.
- Shape: Elongated, slightly curved, with a tapered anterior end and a broader posterior end.
- Surface texture: Smooth and gelatinous, lacking any visible hairs or spines.
- Mouthparts: Hook‑shaped mandibles hidden within the head capsule, not visible externally.
- Respiratory structures: Pair of spiracles located near the posterior end, appearing as tiny openings.
Larvae are typically found in the dog’s bedding, carpet fibers, or any moist, organic debris where adult fleas lay eggs. They thrive in humid conditions (70‑80 % relative humidity) and temperatures between 24 °C and 29 °C. In these microhabitats, they move by inching, using their mouthparts to anchor to substrate fibers.
When disturbed, larvae curl into a tight “C” shape, exposing the posterior end while protecting the head. This defensive posture helps prevent desiccation and predation. Recognizing these traits enables accurate identification and informs effective control measures.