Lice

Question 1

Lice come from the order ……………

Answer 1

phthiraptera

Question 2

Describe the general morphology of a louse, how do they differ from fleas?

Answer 2

Lice are wingless, dorsoventrally flattened with claws. Their mouthparts are either adapted for chewing on epidermal debris, parts of feathers and sebaceous secretions, or for sucking blood
Louse eggs (‘nits’) are pale, translucent, and suboval they are firmly glued to the hairs near to the skin.

Question 3

What is Pediculosis?

Answer 3

Pediculosis is an infestation with lice which causes pruritus and dermal irritation. Animals with a louse infestation show an Unthrifty appearance, rough coat, and lowered production in farm animals.

Question 4

What makes birds more susceptible to louse infestations?

Answer 4

Birds which have been beak trimmed and are unable to groom properly or that are in poor condition are particularly susceptible.

Question 5

What is the pig louse (Haemotopinus suis) a mechanical vector for?

Answer 5

swine pox.

Question 6

What can the dog louse (Trichodectes canis) be a mechanical vector for?

Answer 6

tapeworm Dipylidium caninum

Question 7

The order Phthiraptera can be divided into what 4 suborders?

Answer 7

Anoplura - sucking lice
Rhynohophthirina- elephant and warthog lice
Amblycera - chewing lice
Ischnocera - chewing lice

Question 8

Name the two most important genus’ of sucking lice

Answer 8

Haematopinus: pigs, cattle, horses
Linognathus: Cattle, sheep, goats and dogs

Question 9

Name the important genus’ of chewing lice

Answer 9

Damalina:Cattle, sheep, goats and horses
Felicola: Cats
Trichodectes: Dogs
Lipeurus: Birds
Cuclotogaster: Birds
Menacanthus: Birds
Gliricola: guinea pigs
Gyropus: guinea pigs

Question 10

How big is Haematopinus suis?

Answer 10

5-6mm

Question 11

Where should you look for lice on birds?

Answer 11

In poultry look for fast moving lice especially around the vent area and under wings