Sucking lice

Definition

Blood-feeding ectoparasites that infest mammals, including humans, and are known for their specialized mouthparts adapted for sucking blood.

Etymology

The term 'louse' is derived from Old English 'lūs,' and 'sucking' refers to their feeding mechanism which involves piercing the skin and sucking blood.

Example

Sucking lice, such as the human body louse (Pediculus humanus corporis), can be vectors for serious diseases like typhus.

Synonyms

• Anoplura

Related Terms

• Ectoparasites
• Blood-feeding
• Pediculosis
• Host

Usage Notes

Sucking lice are distinguished from chewing lice by their narrow heads and specialized mouthparts, allowing them to feed on the blood of their hosts.