What is the term for searching fleas on monkeys? - briefly
The activity is referred to as an ectoparasite examination, often described as a flea inspection of the primate.
What is the term for searching fleas on monkeys? - in detail
The activity of locating and retrieving flea specimens from non‑human primates is referred to in scientific literature as ectoparasite examination or ectoparasite sampling. Researchers who conduct such investigations usually describe the procedure as a flea inspection or flea collection performed on the host animal.
Typical steps in an ectoparasite examination include:
- Restraining the animal safely, often using a squeeze cage or sedation.
- Brushing or combing the fur with fine‑toothed combs to dislodge adult fleas and immature stages.
- Using adhesive tape or sticky traps placed on the skin surface to capture mobile specimens.
- Applying a brief exposure to a light source or a heat lamp to encourage flea movement for easier detection.
- Transferring collected insects into vials containing ethanol for preservation and subsequent identification.
The term is employed across disciplines such as primatology, veterinary parasitology, and wildlife disease surveillance. In field studies, the procedure may be abbreviated to flea survey when the primary objective is to assess prevalence and intensity of infestation within a primate population. Laboratory protocols often label the process as flea collection for ectoparasite analysis, emphasizing the diagnostic purpose of the gathered material.