What was the flea in the left shoe made of? - briefly
The flea consisted primarily of chitin, the rigid exoskeleton material characteristic of insects. Its body also contained proteins, lipids, and water.
What was the flea in the left shoe made of? - in detail
The flea discovered in the left shoe is a biological organism composed primarily of chitin, water, proteins, lipids, and nucleic acids. Its structure can be broken down as follows:
- Exoskeleton – a rigid outer shell made of chitin, a polysaccharide that provides protection and support.
- Cuticle – a thin, waxy layer covering the exoskeleton, containing lipids that prevent desiccation.
- Musculature – bundles of protein fibers (actin and myosin) enabling rapid jumps.
- Digestive system – enzymes and gut lining composed of proteins and lipids for processing blood meals.
- Nervous system – clusters of neurons and ganglia, rich in proteins and nucleic acids, controlling sensory input and motor output.
- Hemolymph – a fluid mixture of water (about 70 % of body mass), salts, and proteins that transports nutrients and waste.
Overall, the flea’s body mass is roughly 70 % water, with the remaining 30 % consisting of the structural and functional components listed above. This composition is typical for ectoparasitic insects adapted to survive brief periods outside a host, such as when trapped inside footwear.