Ceratophyllus gallinae
 |
This article has been peer reviewed but is awaiting expert review. If you would like to help with this, please see more information about expert reviewing. |
Also known as: European chicken flea
| Ceratophyllus gallinae | |
|---|---|
| Class | Insecta |
| Order | Siphonaptera |
| Family | Ceratophyllidae |
Hosts
Poultry, dogs, cats and humans.
Identification
C. gallinae are around 2mm, and of the family Ceratophyllidae. They have pronotal combs, but no genal combs. See general flea structure.
Life Cycle
This flea spends most of its time amongst the material comprising the host's nest, and spend short periods of time on the host, only whilst feeding.
The larvae feed on detritus, which is found on the host nest. The larvae take several weeks to develop, going through 3 transformations. They then enter the pupae stage, developing in a silk cocoon.
The emergence from pupae is mainly triggered by rising temperatures.
Test yourself with the Fleas Flashcards
Literature Search
Use these links to find recent scientific publications via CAB Abstracts (log in required unless accessing from a subscribing organisation).
Ceratophyllus gallinae publications
References
Taylor, M.A, Coop, R.L., Wall,R.L. (2007) Veterinary Parasitology Blackwell Publishing