Scanning electron micrograph of cat fleas head
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Scanning electron micrograph of cat fleas head
Cat flea head. Coloured scanning electron micro- graph of the head of a cat flea (Ctenocephalides felis), seen from the front. At the top is the genal comb, a fringe of spines that stops the flea from falling out of its hosts fur. Below this are two splayed sensory palps, which detect odours. In the centre are the blood-sucking mouthparts. These consist of a piercing stylet enclosed between two small labial palps, which form the sheath. Beside these are the hairy, muscular coxae (thighs) of the fleas forelegs. Cat fleas are tiny, wingless, parasitic insects. They visit the host only to feed, using powerful legs to leap between it and the ground. Magnification unknown
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Media ID 6466123
© K. H. KJELDSEN/SCIENCE PHOTO LIBRARY
Cat Flea Ctenocephalides Felis Flea Insecta Maxilla Parasite Stylet
EDITORS COMMENTS
This print showcases the intricate details of a cat flea's head, revealing the fascinating adaptations that enable this tiny insect to survive and thrive. The scanning electron micrograph offers an up-close view from the front, highlighting various features essential for its parasitic lifestyle. At the top of the image, we observe the genal comb, a fringe of spines strategically designed to prevent these fleas from slipping out of their host's fur. Just below it are two splayed sensory palps responsible for detecting odors in their environment. In the center lies their blood-sucking mouthparts - a piercing stylet enclosed between two small labial palps forming a protective sheath. Adjacent to these vital structures are the hairy and muscular coxae (thighs) of their forelegs, which aid in powerful leaps between hosts and ground surfaces. These wingless parasites solely visit their hosts for feeding purposes, utilizing remarkable leg strength during locomotion. Cat fleas belong to a group of minuscule yet resilient creatures known as invertebrates or insects. Their ability to adapt and survive within feline companions is truly remarkable. This mesmerizing photograph not only captures nature's complexity but also serves as a reminder of how diverse our world can be when exploring even its tiniest inhabitants through scientific lenses.
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