Fig. 118.—Coccus Cacti (Mag.)
SUB-ORDER III.—ANOPLURA.
This sub-order contains only one family, which is considered to be the last and lowest group of the Hemiptera, of which it may be regarded as a very degenerate form. The insects have no wings, and live upon the blood of other animals.
Family 1, Pediculidæ.—The "Lice" are a very extensive family, but at present not very well known. Almost every mammal has a louse peculiar to itself.
Fig. 119.—Pediculus Capitis (Mag.)
Three species infest man. The Head Louse (Pediculus capitis), found on the head, especially in children. The Body Louse (Pediculus vestimenti), found in the clothes; and the Crab Louse (Phthirius inquinalis), a broader and shorter insect, found in the hair on the face and body of uncleanly persons.
The lice infesting different races of men differ in colour—thus, those found on niggers are black; and those on Europeans are whitish.
Other species of lice infest the dog, cat, pig, mouse, elephant, monkey, etc.
The Pediculidæ undergo no metamorphoses.