What is the form of lice called? - briefly
Lice are classified in the order Phthiraptera, the scientific name for the group of parasitic insects commonly called lice. They are obligate ectoparasites of birds and mammals.
What is the form of lice called? - in detail
Lice belong to the order Phthiraptera, a group of obligate ectoparasites that feed on the blood or skin debris of mammals and birds. The singular term for the insect is louse, while lice is the plural form. In everyday language the word “louse” designates an individual adult specimen; the collective noun “lice” refers to a population or group.
The organism’s development proceeds through three distinct stages:
- Egg (nit): Oval, cemented to host hair or feathers; hatches after 6–10 days depending on species and temperature.
- Nymph: Immature form lacking fully developed wings and reproductive organs; undergoes three successive molts (instars) before reaching maturity.
- Adult: Fully winged (in most species), sexually mature, capable of reproduction; lifespan ranges from several weeks to a month.
Each stage possesses characteristic morphology. Eggs are translucent and attached by a gelatinous substance. Nymphs resemble miniature adults but are smaller, lighter‑colored, and lack functional genitalia. Adults exhibit well‑developed claws for grasping hair shafts, a dorsoventrally flattened body, and specialized mouthparts for piercing skin.
Taxonomically, lice are divided into two suborders: Anoplura (sucking lice) and Mallophaga (chewing lice). The former includes species such as Pediculus humanus (body louse) and Pediculus capitis (head louse), which possess a sucking proboscis. The latter comprises species that rasp epidermal debris with mandibles.
In summary, the singular designation for an individual of this parasite is louse, while the life cycle comprises egg, nymph, and adult stages, each with distinct anatomical features and functional roles.