Mammal chewing lice

Pronunciation: /MAMM-ul chew-ing LICE/

Category: Taxonomy

Singular: Mammal chewing louse

Plural: Mammal chewing lice

Definition

A group of insects belonging to the suborder Ischnocera of the order Phthiraptera, which are ectoparasites that feed on mammals.

Etymology

From the Latin word 'mamma' (breast) in reference to their association with mammals, and 'louse', referring to the parasites.

Example

Mammal chewing lice, such as those belonging to the family Trichodectidae, are found on a variety of mammals, including rodents, ungulates, and primates.

Related Terms

Trichodectidae
Ischnocera
Ectoparasite

Usage Notes

Mammal chewing lice are host-specific and often have specialized adaptations for feeding on their particular host species.