How many species of sucking lice are there?
About 550 species of sucking lice have been described (Durden and Musser 1994a), all of which parasitize placental mammals; these lice are currently assigned to 50 genera and 15 families. About 2650 valid species of Mallophaga have been described; most of these are associated with birds, but about 400 (ca. 15%) parasitize mammals.
Can sucking louse affect rabbits?
7.14.4Lice. The sucking louse, Haemodipsus ventricosus, can affect domestic rabbits. It may be found in breeding establishments, especially if husbandry standards are poor. It commonly affects wild rabbits and there has been discussion as to whether it can act as a mechanical vector for myxomatosis (Owen, 1992).
Where are sucking lice found?
Surviving colonies of sucking lice are still found in Nordic countries that are almost free of pet fleas, and dogs do not receive ectoparasitic medication for long periods. However, the distribution of ticks continues to expand northwards in both Europe and North America.
Can sucking lice cause anemia?
In addition to pruritus (the only lesion due to biting lice), sucking lice may produce severe anemia, loss of condition, and even death. Pediculosis is most prevalent in the winter months. Parting the hair along the back may reveal small, brown, motile lice just visible to the naked eye.
What are sucking lice?
Sucking lice are small (usually 1–2 mm in length), often blue or blue–grey in colour, with narrow, pointed heads. They have highly adapted legs with tarsi modified for grasping hairs on the host’s body. These grasping ‘claws’ help the lice hold their position close to the skin while feeding.
Where are lice found?
Lice are known to be vectors for tularaemia. Lice may be found on the dorsal and lateral aspects of the body and around the perineum. The eggs are laid on the host and are firmly attached to the hair. They are oval in shape, with a distinctive operculum from which the larvae emerge.