The tribe Aphaniptera was formerly considered to be a separate order, but it is now generally included among the Diptera on account of the similarity in the transformations besides other considerations. There is only one family.
Family 39, Pulicidæ.—To this family belongs the numerous species of fleas which infest different kinds of animals.
The Human Flea (Pulex irritans) is familiar to every one. It gets its living by sucking our blood, and is of great annoyance, particularly in hot weather. The blisters which it raises on various parts of the body are exceedingly irritating.
Fig. 156.—Pulex Irritans (Mag.)
The Dog Flea (Pulex canis) and the Cat Flea (Pulex felis) are distinct from the above, and are chiefly confined to those animals, although they do not disdain to vary their diet occasionally with human blood.
The Jigger or Chigoe (Sarcopsylla penetrans) is abundant in the West Indies and in South America. It is sometimes very annoying to travellers, burrowing deeply under the skin. The body of the female is capable of attaining to the dimensions of a pea.
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