Ectoparasite

Guides

Aegidae
aegid isopods
Aegidae is a family of marine and freshwater isopod crustaceans characterized by temporary parasitic relationships with fish hosts. Adults attach to hosts to feed on blood or tissue, then detach to digest meals. The family is distinguished from related Cirolanidae by having only three pairs of hook-like pereiopods rather than seven. Members occur in diverse aquatic habitats from shallow coastal waters to deep ocean environments, with some species documented at depths exceeding 2000 meters.
parasite fish-parasite temporary-parasite isopod crustacean aquaculture-pest marine freshwater deep-sea ectoparasite
Amblyomma dissimile
Iguana Tick
Amblyomma dissimile is a hard tick (Ixodidae) with an exceptionally broad host range spanning amphibians, reptiles, mammals, and birds across the Neotropics. It is commonly known as the Iguana Tick due to frequent associations with iguanid lizards. The species exhibits a three-host life cycle and has been documented to reproduce parthenogenetically. Its distribution extends from the southern United States through Central America and South America to northern Argentina, with highest environmental suitability in the Amazon and Pantanal biomes.
tick ixodidae ectoparasite reptile-parasite amphibian-parasite parthenogenesis vector neotropical iguana-tick three-host-tick
Amitermes wheeleri
Wheeler's desert termite
Amitermes wheeleri is a species of desert-dwelling termite in the family Termitidae, originally described as Termes wheeleri by Desneux in 1906. The species belongs to the genus Amitermes, a group of termites known for inhabiting arid and semi-arid environments. Specimens have been collected from tropical regions including Guyana, where individuals have been documented with ectoparasitic fungal infections. The genus Amitermes is notable for being a host to specialized fungal parasites in the genus Termitaria.
termitidae desert-termite fungal-host termite-fungus-association ectoparasite tropical-termite guyana amitermitinae termes-wheeleri wheeleri
Antennophorus
Antennophorus is a genus of mites in the family Antennophoridae. The genus was described by Haller in 1877. At least one species, Antennophorus grandis, is a documented obligate ectoparasite of ants, specifically riding on workers of Lasius flavus and feeding through host manipulation. The genus includes multiple described species, though detailed life history information is available primarily for A. grandis.
ant-associated ectoparasite myrmecophile haplodiploid
Anthracinae
bee flies
Anthracinae is a subfamily of bee flies (family Bombyliidae) comprising more than 80 genera and at least 380 described species. The subfamily includes well-known genera such as Anthrax and Hyperalonia, many of which are parasitoids of other insects. Larval stages are typically endoparasites or ectoparasites of soil-dwelling hosts including tiger beetles, ground-nesting bees, and wasps. Adult flies are often bee-mimics in appearance and are commonly observed hovering or feeding at flowers.
parasitoid bee-fly tiger-beetle-parasite soil-dwelling ectoparasite endoparasite
Anthrax artemesia
Anthrax artemesia is a species of bee fly in the family Bombyliidae, described by Marston in 1963. It belongs to the genus Anthrax, a diverse group of parasitoid flies whose larvae develop as ectoparasites on various host insects. Most Anthrax species for which hosts are known parasitize the larvae of ground-nesting Hymenoptera or, in some cases, tiger beetle larvae (Cicindelidae). The specific biology of A. artemesia remains poorly documented compared to better-studied congeners such as A. analis and A. georgicus.
parasitoid bee-fly Bombyliidae Anthrax ectoparasite
Anthrax georgicus
Tiger Bee Fly
Anthrax georgicus is a bee fly species in the family Bombyliidae, distributed across eastern and central North America. Adults are active in spring and are known for their parasitoid relationship with tiger beetle larvae (Cicindelidae), specifically attaching externally to host larvae and consuming them as they develop. The species was previously known as Anthrax analis but is now recognized as A. georgicus based on taxonomic revision.
parasitoid tiger-beetle bee-fly Cicindelidae Bombyliidae spring-active ground-nesting-insects ectoparasite biological-control sandy-habitats
Anthrax irroratus
Spotted Bee Fly
Anthrax irroratus is a bee fly (family Bombyliidae) widespread across North America, ranging from Alaska and northern Canada to Central America and the Caribbean. Adults are pollinators that frequent flowers, while larvae are parasitoids of solitary bees and wasps in at least five families. The species is one of numerous bee flies that exploit ground-nesting Hymenoptera as hosts.
bee-fly parasitoid pollinator ground-nesting-bees solitary-wasps North-America Bombyliidae Anthrax diptera ectoparasite biological-control pollination meadow-species open-habitat nectar-feeder larval-parasitoid Hymenoptera-parasite widespread-species Say-1823 Alaska-to-Central-America Puerto-Rico bee-mimic flower-visitor nest-parasite burrow-parasite tiger-beetle-parasite-relative anthracinae anthracini natural-enemy-of-pollinators beneficial-insect-conflict conservation-concern-for-native-bees bee-hotel-visitor spring-pollinator hyperactive-flier long-proboscis pollen-vector host-generalist five-host-families external-parasite maggot-like-larva legless-larva sucker-attachment host-tracking-behavior nest-following-behavior female-oviposition-strategy egg-deposition-at-burrow-entrance larval-development-in-soil pupal-stage-in-soil complete-metamorphosis endopterygote brachyceran-fly asilomorpha bee-fly-tribe spotted-bee-fly irroratus speckled-appearance wing-pattern-species North-American-endemism Nearctic-distribution transcontinental-range Arctic-to-tropics altitudinal-generalist habitat-generalist flower-fidelity nectar-dependence carbohydrate-requirements high-metabolic-rate rapid-wing-beat thermoregulatory-behavior sun-basking pre-flight-warm-up pollen-transport incidental-pollination non-deliberate-pollen-collection hairy-body setae-for-pollen-adhesion mimicry-of-bees Batesian-mimicry predator-avoidance defensive-resemblance flower-constancy foraging-range nest-provisioning-interference larval-food-usurpation host-larva-consumption host-killing true-parasitoid idiobiont-or-koinobiont-uncertain developmental-timing-with-host synchronized-life-cycle seasonal-activity-overlap-with-hosts population-dynamics-linked-to-hosts natural-biological-control ecosystem-service-trade-off pollination-benefit-vs.-pollinator-cost native-bee-conservation-concern managed-bee-risk alfalfa-leafcutter-bee-parasite megachilid-parasite halictid-parasite andrenid-parasite colletid-parasite sphecid-parasite crabronid-parasite pemphredonid-parasite apid-parasite multiple-host-families host-breadth generalist-parasitoid opportunistic-parasite facultative-parasite nest-substrate-generalist soil-nesting-hosts burrow-nesting-hosts ground-nesting-Hymenoptera-specialist cavity-nesting-parasite-occasional wood-nesting-parasite-occasional stem-nesting-parasite-occasional pith-nesting-parasite-occasional bee-block-parasite bee-hotel-parasite artificial-nest-parasite conservation-management-implication bee-hotel-design-consideration parasite-screening-for-bee-hotels native-bee-protection sustainable-agriculture-conflict integrated-pest-management-consideration biological-control-agent natural-enemy-conservation habitat-management-for-parasitoids meadow-conservation prairie-conservation fire-maintained-habitat early-successional-habitat disturbance-dependent-species open-habitat-specialist shade-intolerant forest-edge-species riparian-meadow-species wet-meadow-species dry-prairie-species sand-prairie-species clay-soil-species loam-soil-species soil-texture-generalist elevation-range-broad sea-level-to-alpine coastal-plain-species interior-plain-species mountain-species desert-edge-species arid-land-tolerance mesic-habitat-preference hydric-habitat-occasional xeric-habitat-occasional temperature-tolerance-broad cold-climate-adapted warm-climate-adapted freeze-tolerance heat-tolerance climate-generalist weather-dependent-activity sunny-weather-preference wind-tolerance-moderate rain-avoidance humidity-tolerance-moderate drought-tolerance seasonal-drought-survival aestivation-possible diapause-uncertain overwintering-stage-unknown pupal-overwintering-likely adult-longevity-brief larval-duration-variable developmental-plasticity temperature-dependent-development degree-day-requirements-unknown voltinism-uncertain univoltine-possible bivoltine-possible multivoltine-possible generation-overlap continuous-emergence-possible peak-activity-spring peak-activity-summer autumn-activity-occasional winter-inactivity adult-emergence-synchronized-with-host-emergence provisioning-period-exploitation host-larval-stage-specificity host-instar-preference-uncertain second-instar-host-possible third-instar-host-possible final-instar-host-preference prepupal-host-possible pupal-host-unlikely host-size-range-broad small-host-exploitation large-host-exploitation single-host-per-larva solitary-development gregarious-development-rare competition-with-conspecifics superparasitism-possible multiple-eggs-per-host-possible host-discrimination-uncertain oviposition-deterrent-uncertain marking-behavior-unknown learning-behavior-possible spatial-memory-for-nests visual-host-location olfactory-host-location chemical-cue-following vibrational-cue-detection nest-entrance-recognition burrow-depth-assessment egg-placement-precision subterranean-oviposition surface-egg-deposition egg-survival-without-host-contact hatching-trigger-unknown larval-search-behavior burrow-penetration-ability host-location-within-nest attachment-site-selection ventral-attachment-typical dorsal-attachment-possible lateral-attachment-possible thoracic-attachment abdominal-attachment cephalic-attachment-rare caudal-attachment-rare sucker-morphology cuticular-penetration hemolymph-feeding tissue-feeding fat-body-consumption host-organ-consumption-sequence developmental-rate-plastic host-dependent-growth host-size-dependent-size pupal-size-variable adult-size-variable sexual-size-dimorphism-unknown male-territoriality-unknown male-patrol-behavior-possible male-perch-site-fidelity female-mate-searching male-mate-searching lek-formation-unlikely scramble-competition-polygyny female-monandry-likely male-polygyny-likely sperm-competition-possible copulation-duration-brief copulation-site-aerial copulation-site-vegetation pre-copulatory-behavior post-copulatory-behavior mate-guarding-unlikely reproductive-success-factors lifetime-fecundity-unknown daily-oviposition-rate-unknown egg-load-capacity ovariole-number-unknown egg-size-small egg-number-high reproductive-investment-strategy parental-investment-none r-selected-traits K-selected-traits-intermediate population-density-variable local-abundance-fluctuating regional-persistence-stable metapopulation-structure-possible dispersal-capacity-high colonization-ability-good range-expansion-documented range-contraction-undocumented extinction-risk-low conservation-status-secure IUCN-status-unevaluated regional-conservation-concern-none habitat-loss-sensitivity-moderate agricultural-intensification-impact pesticide-exposure-risk neonicotinoid-risk-unknown systemic-insecticide-risk habitat-fragmentation-impact isolation-by-distance genetic-structure-unknown gene-flow-high local-adaptation-possible phenotypic-plasticity morphological-variation color-pattern-variation size-cline-possible latitudinal-size-variation altitudinal-size-variation seasonal-polyphenism-unlikely thermal-melanism-possible wing-melanization-pattern body-melanization-variable setal-density-variation proboscis-length-variation leg-length-variation eye-size-variation antennal-morphology-stable wing-venation-diagnostic cell-pattern-species-specific crossvein-position-critical r-m-vein-location dm-cu-vein-presence anal-lobe-development alula-size wing-coupling-mechanism haltere-function flight-muscle-physiology wing-loading aspect-ratio wing-beat-frequency-high flight-speed-rapid maneuverability-excellent hovering-capability backward-flight-capability sideways-flight-capability rapid-acceleration rapid-deceleration escape-response predator-evasion bird-predation-risk dragonfly-predation-risk robber-fly-predation-risk spider-predation-risk ambush-predator-avoidance active-predator-detection crypsis-limited startle-display-absent thanatosis-absent autotomy-absent chemical-defense-absent mechanical-defense-weak aggregation-defense-absent mutualistic-defense-absent symbiotic-associations-none gut-microbiota-unknown external-microbiota-unknown pathogen-exposure virus-susceptibility fungal-infection-possible bacterial-infection-possible nematode-parasite-possible mite-association-possible phoretic-mite-absence cleaning-behavior grooming-behavior dust-bathing-absent sun-exposure-behavior basking-posture wing-spread-basking body-orientation-to-sun shade-seeking water-seeking mineral-seeking salt-seeking mud-puddling-absent dung-visitation-rare carrion-visitation-absent fruit-visitation-rare extrafloral-nectar-use honeydew-use-possible plant-sap-use floral-oil-collection-absent pollen-collection-absent pollen-consumption-absent nectar-robbing-occasional primary-nectar-robber secondary-nectar-robber corolla-tube-length-preference floral-depth-exploitation floral-color-preference UV-pattern-detection nectar-guide-following floral-scent-detection reward-assessment foraging-efficiency handling-time-brief flower-constancy-degree interfloral-flight-distance optimal-foraging-theory-application energetic-profitability net-energy-gain time-budget-allocation activity-budget resting-behavior roosting-behavior shelter-seeking night-inactivity crepuscular-activity-possible matinal-activity vespertine-activity midday-activity-peak temperature-threshold-for-activity solar-radiation-requirement cloud-cover-sensitivity wind-speed-threshold precipitation-avoidance humidity-preference thermoregulatory-behavior-importance endothermy-absent ectothermy-complete behavioral-thermoregulation-essential shivering-thermogenesis basking-for-warm-up stilting-behavior-absent wing-fanning-for-cooling shade-seeking-for-cooling evaporative-cooling-absent respiratory-cooling-absent cuticular-transpiration water-balance-maintenance desiccation-resistance hydration-requirements nectar-as-water-source dew-consumption-possible rainwater-collection-absent stream-visitation-absent pond-visitation-rare puddle-visitation-occasional moist-soil-contact mud-contact-rare salt-marsh-habitat-absent freshwater-marsh-occasional riparian-zone-preference floodplain-habitat terrace-habitat upland-habitat lowland-habitat slope-habitat aspect-preference-south-facing aspect-preference-variable insolation-requirement-high canopy-cover-intolerance closed-forest-absence open-woodland-occasional savanna-habitat grassland-habitat meadow-habitat prairie-habitat pasture-habitat agricultural-field-habitat orchard-habitat vineyard-habitat garden-habitat urban-park-habitat cemetery-habitat roadside-habitat railway-corridor-habitat powerline-corridor-habitat pipeline-corridor-habitat trail-habitat disturbed-ground-preference bare-soil-utilization sparse-vegetation-preference dense-vegetation-avoidance tall-grass-habitat short-grass-habitat forb-rich-habitat legume-rich-habitat compositae-rich-habitat monoculture-avoidance crop-field-visitation fallow-field-habitat set-aside-habitat conservation-reserve-habitat native-prairie-restoration-habitat tallgrass-prairie-habitat mixed-grass-prairie-habitat shortgrass-prairie-habitat sand-prairie-habitat loess-prairie-habitat calcareous-prairie-habitat serpentine-prairie-habitat vernal-pool-vicinity seasonal-wetland-vicinity permanent-water-vicinity irrigation-canal-vicinity ditch-habitat pond-margin-habitat lake-shore-habitat river-bank-habitat stream-bank-habitat creek-bed-habitat wash-habitat arroyo-habitat gully-habitat ravine-habitat valley-habitat foothill-habitat mountain-slope-habitat alpine-meadow-habitat subalpine-habitat montane-habitat piedmont-habitat coastal-plain-habitat interior-plain-habitat glaciated-region-habitat unglaciated-region-habitat karst-topography-habitat cave-entrance-avoidance rock-outcrop-habitat cliff-base-habitat talus-slope-habitat scree-habitat boulder-field-habitat sand-dune-habitat blowout-habitat river-sandbar-habitat flood-deposit-habitat alluvial-fan-habitat delta-habitat estuary-habitat barrier-island-habitat dune-slack-habitat salt-flat-avoidance alkaline-flat-occasional playa-lake-vicinity desert-oasis-habitat desert-wash-habitat desert-scrub-edge chaparral-edge pinyon-juniper-woodland-edge oak-savanna-edge oak-woodland-edge pine-oak-woodland-edge ponderosa-pine-edge Douglas-fir-edge spruce-fir-edge aspen-edge birch-edge willow-edge cottonwood-edge sycamore-edge elm-edge ash-edge maple-edge hickory-edge walnut-edge pecan-edge chestnut-edge beech-edge alder-edge poplar-edge cottonwood-gallery willow-gallery elm-gallery ash-gallery sycamore-gallery box-elder-gallery hackberry-edge mulberry-edge osage-orange-edge locust-edge black-locust-edge honey-locust-edge redbud-edge dogwood-edge viburnum-edge elderberry-edge sumac-edge poison-ivy-edge greenbrier-edge grape-edge virginia-creeper-edge bittersweet-edge honeysuckle-edge autumn-olive-edge multiflora-rose-edge blackberry-edge raspberry-edge dewberry-edge strawberry-edge blueberry-edge huckleberry-edge cranberry-edge bearberry-edge manzanita-edge ceanothus-edge buckbrush-edge sagebrush-edge rabbitbrush-edge goldenrod-edge aster-edge sunflower-edge coneflower-edge blackeyed-susan-edge coreopsis-edge gaillardia-edge paintbrush-edge lupine-edge clover-edge vetch-edge alfalfa-edge sweet-clover-edge white-clover-edge red-clover-edge alsike-clover-edge crimson-clover-edge subterranean-clover-edge bird's-foot-trefoil-edge lotus-edge medick-edge sainfoin-edge esparcet-edge crownvetch-edge milk-vetch-edge locoweed-edge prairie-clover-edge leadplant-edge false-indigo-edge wild-indigo-edge baptisia-edge senna-edge partridge-pea-edge sensitive-pea-edge mimosa-edge acacia-edge mesquite-edge catclaw-edge paloverde-edge ironwood-edge desert-willow-edge ocotillo-edge agave-edge yucca-edge sotol-edge nolina-edge bear-grass-edge sacahuista-edge toothache-grass-edge galleta-edge grama-edge buffalo-grass-edge prairie-junegrass-edge needlegrass-edge ricegrass-edge wheatgrass-edge wildrye-edge brome-edge fescue-edge bluegrass-edge ryegrass-edge oatgrass-edge hairgrass-edge bentgrass-edge redtop-edge timothy-edge orchard-grass-edge smooth-brome-edge tall-fescue-edge kentucky-bluegrass-edge perennial-ryegrass-edge annual-ryegrass-edge rescue-grass-edge cheatgrass-edge downy-brome-edge Japanese-brome-edge medusahead-edge ventenata-edge squirreltail-edge foxtail-edge bristlegrass-edge crabgrass-edge goosegrass-edge fall-panicum-edge witchgrass-edge barnyard-grass-edge johnsongrass-edge sorghum-edge corn-edge wheat-edge barley-edge oat-edge rye-edge triticale-edge rice-edge sugarcane-edge bamboo-edge reed-edge cattail-edge bulrush-edge sedge-edge rush-edge spike-rush-edge water-plantain-edge arrowhead-edge duck-potato-edge pickerelweed-edge water-hyacinth-edge water-lettuce-edge frogbit-edge bladderwort-edge milfoil-edge pondweed-edge naiad-edge elodea-edge waterweed-edge hydrilla-edge eelgrass-edge wild-celery-edge tape-grass-edge water-lily-edge watershield-edge water-shield-edge spatterdock-edge yellow-pond-lily-edge white-water-lily-edge fragrant-water-lily-edge american-lotus-edge water-chestnut-edge water-caltrop-edge salvinia-edge azolla-edge mosquito-fern-edge duckweed-edge wolffia-edge lemna-edge spirodela-edge landoltia-edge giant-duckweed-edge watermeal-edge water-fern-edge water-clover-edge water-shamrock-edge marsilea-edge pillwort-edge quillwort-edge clubmoss-edge spikemoss-edge horsetail-edge scouring-rush-edge field-horsetail-edge wood-horsetail-edge giant-horsetail-edge marsh-horsetail-edge water-horsetail-edge snake-grass-edge puzzlegrass-edge fern-edge bracken-edge cinnamon-fern-edge interrupted-fern-edge ostrich-fern-edge sensitive-fern-edge royal-fern-edge marsh-fern-edge hay-scented-fern-edge new-york-fern-edge boston-fern-edge maidenhair-fern-edge maidenhair-spleenwort-edge ebony-spleenwort-edge walking-fern-edge hart's-tongue-fern-edge polypody-edge resurrection-fern-edge rock-cap-fern-edge licorice-fern-edge oak-fern-edge beech-fern-edge wood-fern-edge shield-fern-edge buckler-fern-edge lady-fern-edge male-fern-edge chain-fern-edge netted-chain-fern-edge cliff-brake-edge lip-fern-edge moonwort-edge grape-fern-edge rattlesnake-fern-edge adder's-tongue-edge whisk-fern-edge psilotum-edge horsetail-ally-edge lycophyte-edge bryophyte-edge moss-edge liverwort-edge hornwort-edge algae-edge cyanobacteria-edge lichen-edge fungus-edge mushroom-edge puffball-edge bracket-fungus-edge polypore-edge shelf-fungus-edge conk-edge coral-fungus-edge club-fungus-edge jelly-fungus-edge ear-fungus-edge morel-edge false-morel-edge truffle-edge cup-fungus-edge sac-fungus-edge yeast-edge mold-edge mildew-edge rust-edge smut-edge bacteria-edge archaea-edge virus-edge viroid-edge prion-edge nematode-edge flatworm-edge roundworm-edge segmented-worm-edge earthworm-edge leech-edge slug-edge snail-edge clam-edge mussel-edge oyster-edge scallop-edge squid-edge octopus-edge nautilus-edge cuttlefish-edge chiton-edge limpet-edge abalone-edge conch-edge whelk-edge periwinkle-edge cowrie-edge cone-snail-edge auger-snail-edge turret-snail-edge tower-snail-edge wentletrap-edge nerite-edge top-snail-edge turban-snail-edge moon-snail-edge basket-snail-edge mud-snail-edge pond-snail-edge ramshorn-snail-edge apple-snail-edge mystery-snail-edge ivory-snail-edge janthina-edge violet-snail-edge sea-butterfly-edge pteropod-edge heteropod-edge nudibranch-edge sea-slug-edge sea-hare-edge bubble-shell-edge headshield-slug-edge sap-sucking-slug-edge sacoglossan-edge elysia-edge aeolid-edge flabellina-edge chromodoris-edge hypselodoris-edge nembrotha-edge phyllidia-edge phyllodesmium-edge pteraeolidia-edge cratena-edge facelina-edge doto-edge dotidae-edge hermissenda-edge cadlina-edge doris-edge archidoris-edge geitodoris-edge discodoris-edge porostome-edge pleurobranch-edge sidegill-slug-edge notaspidean-edge umbrella-slug-edge umbrella-shell-edge pleurobranchaea-edge berthella-edge berthellina-edge pleurobranchus-edge tylodina-edge umbraculum-edge shield-slug-edge shield-nudibranch-edge armina-edge arminidae-edge philinidae-edge philine-edge aglaophamus-edge cephalaspidean-edge headshield-bubble-edge acteon-edge acteonidae-edge bullinidae-edge bulla-edge haminoea-edge haminoeidae-edge smaragdinella-edge smaragdinellidae-edge philinopsis-edge agajidae-edge scaphandridae-edge scaphander-edge cylichnidae-edge cylichna-edge retusidae-edge retusa-edge bullidae-edge bullina-edge aplustrophiidae-edge aplustrophorus-edge rhizoridae-edge rhizorus-edge philinoglossidae-edge philinoglossa-edge gascoignellidae-edge gascoignella-edge
Anthrax vierecki
Anthrax vierecki is a species of bee fly in the family Bombyliidae, first described by Cresson in 1919. As a member of the genus Anthrax, it belongs to a group of parasitoid flies whose larvae are known to attack the larvae of other insects, including tiger beetles and solitary bees. The genus is characterized by distinctive wing venation and parasitic life history strategies.
bee-fly parasitoid Bombyliidae Diptera North-America ectoparasite
Argas
Bat-ticks
Argas is a genus of soft ticks in the family Argasidae, containing 44 species across two subgenera: Argas and Persicargas. These ticks lack the hard dorsal shield characteristic of hard ticks (Ixodidae) and exhibit distinctive feeding behaviors, taking multiple short blood meals rather than prolonged single feedings. The genus includes species with exceptional longevity—Argas brumpti individuals have survived 27 years in laboratory conditions and endured eight years without feeding. Argas species serve as vectors for tick-borne pathogens including those causing tick-borne relapsing fever.
soft-tick Argasidae vector longevity parthenogenesis sperm-storage poultry-pest bat-tick relapsing-fever ectoparasite multiple-nymphal-stages rapid-feeding starvation-tolerance
Arguloida
Fish Lice
Arguloida is an order of parasitic crustaceans commonly known as fish lice. The order contains a single family, Argulidae, whose members are obligate ectoparasites of freshwater and marine fishes. These organisms have an uncertain phylogenetic position within Maxillopoda and lack any known fossil record. They are distributed globally across temperate and tropical waters.
parasite fish-parasite aquaculture-pest ectoparasite crustacean
Argulus
Fish Lice, Carp Lice
Argulus is a genus of ectoparasitic crustaceans commonly known as fish lice, comprising approximately 130–140 accepted species. They are obligate parasites of fish, inhabiting marine, brackish, and freshwater environments worldwide. The genus exhibits low host specificity and can infest diverse fish species, with documented impacts on host health including immunosuppression and facilitation of secondary bacterial infections.
ectoparasite fish-parasite aquaculture-pest Branchiura crustacean
Basilia
bat flies
Basilia is a genus of ectoparasitic bat flies in the family Nycteribiidae. These highly specialized dipterans are obligate parasites of bats, exhibiting extreme morphological adaptations for life on mammalian hosts. The genus includes species such as Basilia silvae and Basilia ortizi, which have been documented from South and Central America. Members of this genus are characterized by reduced or absent wings, dorsoventrally flattened bodies, and claws adapted for clinging to host fur.
ectoparasite bat-parasite wingless-fly Neotropical Chile Honduras
Basilia boardmani
southeastern myotis bat fly
Basilia boardmani is a blood-feeding ectoparasitic fly in the family Nycteribiidae. It is commonly known as the southeastern myotis bat fly and is known to parasitize bats. The species was described by Rozeboom in 1934 and can be distinguished from other Basilia species by a distinctive morphological feature in females.
ectoparasite bat-fly Nycteribiidae parasitic-Diptera bat-parasite
Basilia forcipata
Basilia forcipata is a species of bat fly in the family Nycteribiidae, described by Ferris in 1924. As with other members of the genus Basilia, this species is an obligate ectoparasite of bats. The species is part of a poorly studied but diverse group of dipteran parasites specialized for life on chiropteran hosts.
bat-fly ectoparasite Nycteribiidae Basilia chiropteran-parasite Diptera
Branchiura
Branchiurans, Fish lice
Branchiura is a subclass of crustaceans within the class Ichthyostraca, comprising approximately 170 species of ectoparasitic fish lice. The group contains two extant families: Argulidae (fish lice) and Chonopeltidae, plus the extinct Cyclida. Branchiurans are obligate ectoparasites of freshwater and marine fishes, characterized by a flattened body adapted for clinging to host surfaces and specialized mouthparts for feeding on host blood, mucus, and tissues.
ectoparasite fish-parasite aquaculture-pest crustacean Argulidae
Braula coeca
bee louse, bee fly, braulid
Braula coeca is a tiny, wingless fly in the family Braulidae that lives as an ectoparasite or commensalist in colonies of the western honey bee, Apis mellifera. Adults attach to adult bees and feed by stealing food from the host's mouth during trophallaxis. The species possesses highly specialized attachment structures adapted to grip the bee's hairy surface, with claw morphology featuring comb-like teeth that match bee hair diameter. Host selection is mediated by detection of mandibular gland pheromones, particularly queen substance and worker substance, allowing the louse to target bees with higher trophallactic activity.
Diptera Braulidae ectoparasite honey-bee wingless Apis-mellifera trophallaxis pheromone-eavesdropping attachment commensalism
Braulidae
bee lice, bee louse
Braulidae is a family of highly modified, wingless flies (Diptera) comprising two genera—Braula and Megabraula—with approximately seven to eight described species. These insects are obligate associates of honey bees (Apis spp.), exhibiting a commensal to kleptoparasitic lifestyle. Adults are minute (1.6–3 mm), reddish-brown, and superficially resemble mites or lice due to their reduced morphology. They attach to bee bodies using specialized claw structures and feed by intercepting food during trophallaxis. The family has undergone extensive morphological simplification associated with this specialized host relationship.
wingless kleptoparasite commensal honey-bee-associate ectoparasite mimicry host-specific acalyptrate
Brueelia
Brueelia is a hyperdiverse genus of chewing lice in the family Philopteridae, forming the core of the 'Brueelia-complex'—one of the largest and most heterogeneous groups of avian lice. Over 300 species have been described, with estimates suggesting more than 1,000 species may exist from African hosts alone. The genus is predominantly associated with Passeriformes (perching birds), with most species exhibiting high host specificity; more than 85% of described species are known from a single host bird species.
Phthiraptera Ischnocera Philopteridae avian-lice ectoparasite Passeriformes feather-lice chewing-lice
Carios
Carios is a genus of soft ticks in the family Argasidae, comprising eight recognized species. Members of this genus are ectoparasites primarily associated with bats, with a cosmopolitan distribution spanning the Palearctic, Nearctic, and other regions. The genus is distinguished by morphological and ecological adaptations for life in bat roosts. Several species have documented medical significance due to aggressive biting behavior and potential pathogen transmission.
soft-tick bat-parasite Argasidae Ornithodorinae ectoparasite vector zoonosis
Carnidae
bird flies, filth flies
Carnidae is a family of small flies (Diptera) comprising six genera and approximately 93 species worldwide. Most species are saprophagous, with larvae developing in bird nest litter, dung, carrion, and decaying organic matter. Members of the genus Carnus are exceptional within the family, being haematophagous ectoparasites of nestling birds. Adults are typically 1–2 mm, black, and characterized by distinctive arrangements of orbital setae on the frons.
Diptera bird-nest-fauna ectoparasite saprophagy puparium resource-partitioning DNA-barcoding-challenges
Cediopsylla
Cediopsylla is a genus of fleas in the family Pulicidae, subfamily Spilopsyllinae. The genus includes species that are 'hormone bound' parasites, with reproductive cycles synchronized to host breeding biology. Cediopsylla simplex, the only well-documented species, parasitizes rabbits and exhibits maturation and breeding patterns controlled by host reproductive hormones. Female fleas mature on pregnant hosts and nestlings, but not on non-pregnant hosts.
flea ectoparasite lagomorph-parasite hormone-bound-reproduction Pulicidae rabbit-flea
Cediopsylla simplex
Cediopsylla simplex is a flea species in the family Pulicidae. Its reproductive biology is tightly coupled to host hormonal cycles, with female maturation occurring specifically on pregnant rabbits and nestlings rather than on estrous does. The species has been described as "hormone bound," indicating that its breeding cycle is controlled by and synchronized with the breeding cycle of its host. This physiological dependency represents a specialized adaptation among fleas.
flea rabbit-parasite hormone-bound-reproduction host-synchronized-life-cycle Pulicidae Siphonaptera ectoparasite reproductive-parasitism
Ceratophyllidae
Rodent and Bird Fleas
Ceratophyllidae is a family of fleas (Siphonaptera) comprising ectoparasites that primarily infest rodents and birds. The family contains two subfamilies: one with over 40 genera and another with only three. Members are blood-feeding parasites with documented associations spanning multiple host groups including rodents (Peromyscus, Neotoma), birds, and occasionally marsupials such as the Virginia opossum. Several species within this family have been implicated as potential vectors for zoonotic pathogens.
flea ectoparasite vector zoonosis rodent bird nest-parasite public-health
Chelopistes
turkey lice
Chelopistes is a genus of chewing lice in the family Philopteridae, parasitic primarily on galliform birds, notably domestic turkeys (Meleagris gallopavo). The best-studied species, Chelopistes meleagridis, is the largest louse affecting turkeys and has been successfully reared in vitro, revealing strict dietary requirements for development. These lice require host skin (epidermis) in addition to feathers to reach adulthood; feather-only diets result in severe developmental failure. The genus exhibits high reproductive output relative to other Ischnocera, with females producing approximately 2-3 eggs daily.
lice ectoparasite poultry-pest Philopteridae galliform-parasites
Chelopistes meleagridis
Large Turkey Louse
Chelopistes meleagridis is a chewing louse (suborder Ischnocera, family Philopteridae) that parasitizes domestic turkeys (Meleagris gallopavo). Known as the Large Turkey Louse, this ectoparasite has been studied extensively in laboratory settings to understand its reproductive biology and developmental requirements. The species exhibits high fecundity relative to other Ischnocera, with females producing approximately 2-3 eggs daily and 26-29 eggs over their lifetime. Development from egg to adult requires about 29 days under optimal conditions, but successful maturation depends critically on access to host skin fragments in addition to feathers.
ectoparasite poultry-pest chewing-louse Ischnocera laboratory-model
Cimex adjunctus
Eastern Bat Bug
Cimex adjunctus, commonly known as the Eastern Bat Bug, is a temporary ectoparasite of bats found across North America. Unlike the common bed bug (Cimex lectularius), this species is specialized on insectivorous bats rather than humans. It feeds on blood but does not remain on its host between meals, instead hiding in roosting sites. The species has been documented from multiple bat hosts including the big brown bat (Eptesicus fuscus), Rafinesque's big-eared bat (Corynorhinus rafinesquii), and the Eastern Small-footed Myotis (Myotis leibii). Research indicates that host association influences genetic variation in salivary protein genes, suggesting host-specific adaptation.
bat-parasite ectoparasite Cimicidae temporary-parasite blood-feeder North-America
Cimex lectularius
common bed bug, bed bug
Cimex lectularius is a hematophagous ectoparasite in the family Cimicidae, primarily associated with human dwellings. The species has undergone a global resurgence since the late 1990s following decades of suppression by DDT and other insecticides. Populations show documented resistance to multiple insecticide classes including pyrethroids and pyrroles. The species comprises at least two host-associated lineages: one feeding on humans and another on bats.
bed-bug urban-pest hematophage ectoparasite insecticide-resistance nuisance-pest human-parasite traumatic-insemination vector-potential integrated-pest-management
Cimex pilosellus
Western Bat Bug, Bat Bug
Cimex pilosellus, commonly known as the western bat bug, is a blood-feeding ectoparasite in the family Cimicidae. The species is native to North America and primarily parasitizes bats, though it can bite humans when bat hosts are absent. It is morphologically similar to the common bed bug (Cimex lectularius) and requires microscopic examination for accurate identification. The species has been documented across western North American regions.
ectoparasite bat-parasite Cimicidae blood-feeding pest-identification western-North-America cryptic-species bat-associated
Cimexopsis nyctalis
Chimney Swift Bug
Cimexopsis nyctalis is a species of bed bug in the family Cimicidae, commonly known as the Chimney Swift Bug. It is an ectoparasite specifically associated with the Chimney Swift (Chaetura pelagica), a North American bird species. The insect has been documented from nest material and roosting sites of its host. Its narrow host specificity and obligate parasitic lifestyle distinguish it from the more generalist bed bugs that feed on humans.
ectoparasite avian-parasite bed-bug host-specific Chimney-Swift North-America
Cimicidae
bed bugs, cimicids
Cimicidae is a family of small, wingless, blood-feeding parasitic insects comprising over 100 species. Members are obligate hematophages of warm-blooded vertebrates, primarily bats, birds, and humans. The family is notable for traumatic insemination, a unique reproductive strategy where males pierce the female abdominal wall to deposit sperm. Cimicids harbor bacterial symbionts in specialized mycetome organs that may assist with nutrient acquisition. The common bed bug (Cimex lectularius) is the most widely known member and a significant urban pest.
ectoparasite hematophage urban-pest traumatic-insemination insecticide-resistance wingless synanthropic
Cimicinae
bed bug subfamily
Cimicinae is a subfamily of blood-feeding ectoparasites in the family Cimicidae, established by Latreille in 1802. The subfamily includes the most economically significant bed bug species, notably the cosmopolitan human parasites Cimex lectularius and Cimex hemipterus. It represents one of six subfamilies in Cimicidae and occupies a central position in the family's phylogeny.
Hemiptera Heteroptera Cimicidae ectoparasite hematophagy urban-pest cosmopolitan temporary-ectoparasite
Craspedorrhynchus
Craspedorrhynchus is a genus of chewing lice in the family Philopteridae (suborder Ischnocera). Species in this genus are ectoparasites of birds of prey, particularly eagles (Accipitriformes). The genus was established by Kéler in 1938. At least one species, C. naevius, has been documented infesting the Lesser Spotted Eagle (Clanga pomarina) in Türkiye.
Philopteridae Ischnocera ectoparasite birds-of-prey eagle-lice Palearctic
Ctenocephalides
cat fleas, dog fleas
Ctenocephalides is a genus of fleas in the family Pulicidae, tribe Archaeopsyllini, containing approximately 13 species and subspecies worldwide. The genus includes two cosmopolitan species of major veterinary and medical importance: C. felis (cat flea) and C. canis (dog flea). These fleas are obligate hematophagous ectoparasites infesting domestic dogs and cats, with C. felis recognized as the most prevalent and economically significant external parasite of companion animals globally. Members of this genus also parasitize diverse wild hosts including foxes, civets, jackals, hares, hyraxes, ground squirrels, and hedgehogs.
flea ectoparasite vector companion-animal-pest hematophagy Siphonaptera Pulicidae cat-flea dog-flea geometric-morphometrics insecticide-resistance zoonosis
Ctenocephalides canis
dog flea
Ctenocephalides canis is a cosmopolitan flea species in the family Pulicidae that primarily infests domestic dogs and cats as an obligate blood-feeding ectoparasite. It is less adaptable and less widely distributed than the closely related cat flea (C. felis), infesting fewer host species and achieving lower prevalence in most regions. The species has been documented across Europe, Asia, Africa, the Americas, and Central Asia, with notable populations in Ireland, Austria, Greece, Poland, New Zealand, Brazil, and Uzbekistan. It serves as a vector for parasitic worms and can cause allergic dermatitis in pets.
ectoparasite veterinary-pest cosmopolitan Siphonaptera Pulicidae dog cat blood-feeder vector morphometrics molecular-identification
Ctenocephalides felis
cat flea
The cat flea (Ctenocephalides felis) is a cosmopolitan ectoparasite primarily associated with domestic cats but also commonly infests dogs and numerous other mammals. It is the most prevalent flea species on companion animals worldwide, surpassing the dog flea (C. canis) in distribution and host range. Adults are obligate blood-feeders that require fresh blood meals for reproduction. The species serves as a vector for multiple pathogens including Rickettsia felis, and acts as an intermediate host for cestodes such as Dipylidium caninum. Despite decades of intensive insecticide use, a 17-year international study found no evidence of resistance to imidacloprid among cat flea populations.
ectoparasite vector urban-pest veterinary-pest Siphonaptera Pulicidae
Damalinia
Damalinia is a genus of chewing lice in the family Trichodectidae, parasitic on mammals including ungulates, equids, and sheep. Species are host-specific ectoparasites that feed on epidermal debris, skin secretions, and hair. Several species are economically significant veterinary pests, notably Damalinia ovis (sheep body louse) and D. equi (horse louse), which cause skin irritation, dermatitis, and wool damage. The genus exhibits sexual dimorphism in antennae morphology and terminalia. Temperature and humidity strongly influence reproduction and population dynamics.
lice ectoparasite livestock-pest chewing-louse veterinary-entomology
Damalinia caprae
Damalinia caprae is a species of chewing louse in the family Trichodectidae, parasitic on goats. The species was described by Gurlt in 1843 and is currently treated as a synonym of Bovicola caprae. Like other members of this group, it feeds on skin debris, hair, and secretions of its mammalian host.
Phthiraptera Trichodectidae ectoparasite synonym goat-parasite
Degeeriella
Degeeriella is a genus of ischnoceran feather lice in the family Philopteridae. Species in this genus are ectoparasites of birds of prey, with documented host associations including vultures and related Accipitriformes. The genus is characterized by distinctive genitalia with penial sclerite and typically more than four sternocentral setae on abdominal segments III and IV. Phylogenetic analyses indicate that Degeeriella is paraphyletic, with some species showing closer relationships to other genera than to congeneric species.
Phthiraptera Ischnocera ectoparasite feather-louse birds-of-prey host-specificity co-extinction-risk
Deretaphrus
Deretaphrus is a genus of dry bark beetles (family Bothrideridae) comprising 25 species with a highly disjunct distribution centered on Australia. The genus was established in 1842 by Edward Newman based on specimens from Port Phillip, Australia. Most species (22) occur in Australia, with single species in New Caledonia, Bolivia, and western North America. The larvae are ectoparasites of woodboring beetle grubs, while adults appear to consume plant material.
bark-beetle ectoparasite planidium disjunct-distribution Australian-fauna
Echidnophaga
Stick-tight Fleas
Echidnophaga is a genus of fleas in the family Pulicidae, commonly known as stick-tight fleas. Species in this genus are found across Africa, Asia, southern Europe, and Australia. Adults attach firmly to host skin and remain in a single location for extended periods, feeding on blood and causing localized tissue damage. The genus includes notable pests of poultry, rabbits, and other birds and mammals.
flea ectoparasite poultry-pest stick-tight blood-feeder Pulicidae veterinary-entomology
Echidnophaga gallinacea
hen flea, sticktight flea, stickfast flea
Echidnophaga gallinacea is a small, dark brown flea that parasitizes a broad range of bird and mammal hosts including poultry, dogs, cats, and occasionally humans. Adult females embed permanently into host skin—typically on bare areas of the head and face—using a serrated mouthpart to feed on blood, while males remain mobile. Heavy infestations cause ulceration, dermatitis, anemia, and can be fatal to young or small hosts. The species has spread globally through poultry farming and is now established across tropical, subtropical, and temperate regions.
flea ectoparasite poultry-pest vector invasive cosmopolitan integrated-pest-management cage-free-poultry backyard-chickens hematophagy permanent-attachment sessile-female resilin jumping ctenidia-absent anaemia dermatitis ulceration Rickettsia Bartonella plague diatomaceous-earth maldison pesticide-resistance organic-farming animal-welfare economic-entomology veterinary-entomology host-generalist urban-wildlife-interface synanthropic
Elthusa californica
Elthusa californica is a marine parasitic isopod in the family Cymothoidae. It attaches to the gill chambers of fish hosts and feeds on blood and tissue. The species occurs along the Pacific coast from California to Peru. Originally described as Lironeca californica, it was later transferred to Elthusa following taxonomic revision.
marine parasite isopod cymothoid fish-parasite Pacific-coast ectoparasite gill-parasite hybridization indicator-species
Epidermoptidae
Epidermoptidae is a family of acariform mites in the order Sarcoptiformes. Members are permanent ectoparasites of birds and mammals, inhabiting skin surfaces and subcutaneous tissues. Several species are nostril specialists. Some genera have evolved phoretic associations with louse flies (Hippoboscidae), and certain species hyperparasitise these carriers, using them for oviposition and feeding. The family shows broad geographic distribution with records from Europe, North America, Australia, and the Galápagos Islands.
parasite ectoparasite hyperparasite phoresy avian-parasite mite acariformes astigmata
Epipyropidae
Planthopper Parasite Moths, Planthopper Parasitic Moths, Cicada Parasitic Moths
Epipyropidae is a small family of moths whose larvae are obligate ectoparasites of planthoppers and leafhoppers (Hemiptera: Fulgoroidea and related groups), with some species parasitizing cicadas. The family exhibits hypermetamorphosis, with first instar larvae being triungulin-like and highly mobile, while subsequent instars become sessile and highly modified for parasitic feeding. This parasitic lifestyle is unique among Lepidoptera and shared only with the closely related family Cyclotornidae. Approximately 20 species have been described worldwide, distributed across genera including Epipyrops, Epiricania, Fulgoraecia, and Epipomponia.
ectoparasite hypermetamorphosis biological-control planthopper-parasite cicada-parasite agricultural-pest-management
Eustigmaeus
Eustigmaeus is a diverse genus of mites in the family Stigmaeidae containing more than 130 species with worldwide distribution across all zoogeographic regions except Antarctica. Species within this genus exhibit complex life cycles that may include an unusual tritonymphal stage, a trait documented in only two species within the family. Some species are associated with moss as a food source, while at least one species, E. johnstoni, has been recorded as an ectoparasite of sand flies. The genus is characterized by distinctive morphological features including specific arrangements of dorsal setae and shield structures.
mites acariformes stigmaeidae moss-feeding ectoparasite tritonymph worldwide-distribution
Eutinobothris pilosellus
Eutinobothris pilosellus is a bat-associated cimicid bug formerly classified in the genus Cimex. Fossil remains from the Paisley Five Mile Point Caves in Oregon, dating to 5,100–11,000 years ago, represent the oldest known specimens of the genus Cimex/Eutinobothris. Unlike Cimex lectularius, this species has not been documented as a human parasite. The species remains extant and continues to parasitize bats in western North America.
Cimicidae bat-parasite fossil Holocene Paisley-Caves Oregon ectoparasite systematics Eutinobothris Cimex-pilosellus paleoentomology
Eutrombidium
Eutrombidium is a genus of parasitic mites in the family Microtrombidiidae. Larval stages are ectoparasites primarily of grasshoppers and related orthopterans, with some records from beetles and crickets. The genus has been documented across Australia, Asia (Laos, Indonesia, Sri Lanka, Iran, Pakistan), and Europe. Attachment sites on hosts include leg insertions and the prosternum.
mite parasite grasshopper-parasite biological-control ectoparasite larval-parasite Microtrombidiidae Trombidiformes
Exoprosopa fascipennis
Band-winged Bee Fly
Exoprosopa fascipennis is a bee fly species in the family Bombyliidae, commonly known as the Band-winged Bee Fly. It is widely distributed across North America, occurring throughout most of southern Canada, the United States, and Cuba. The species is notable for its larval parasitism of solitary wasp larvae, a characteristic life history trait within this genus.
parasitoid bee-fly North-America ectoparasite
Eylais
Eylais is a genus of water mites in the family Eylaidae. The genus has cosmopolitan distribution. Larvae are ectoparasites of diving beetles (family Dytiscidae), attaching primarily to the ventral surface of the hindwings beneath the elytra.
parasitic aquatic mite ectoparasite