In The Eyes of Kinetic Beasts – Research

A flea also has spines around its head and mouth — the number and shape vary according to the flea’s species. The mouth itself is adapted for piercing skin and sucking blood. Several mouthparts come together to form a needlelike drinking tube.

How a flea operates;

  • Two sawlike laciniae cut the skin. They also fit together to form a saliva channel.
  • The epipharynx is like a needle. The laciniae surround the epipharynx, and together they form the stylet, or puncturing organ.
  • The prementum and labial palps form the labium, which supports the stylet.

Fleas and dogs have a symbiotic relationship.  In fact fleas can have this symbiotic relationship with any warm-blooded animal.  The relationship is a parasitic relationship.

In a parasitic relationship one organism, the parasite, benefits to the detriment of another organism, the host.  The dog is a host, it provides a food source (blood) and shelter (the fur) to the parasite the flea.

How do fleas jump;