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What are the four stages of a flea life cycle?
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flea
Flea (Ctenocephalides)
The flea undergoes a complete metamorphosis consisting of four distinct life stages:1
- Egg: Pearly white, oval-shaped eggs are deposited on the host or within its habitat.1
- Larva: Small and legless, the larva feeds on organic debris found in the host's nest, such as dried blood, skin, or excrement.1
- Pupa: After molting, the larva spins a silk cocoon to enter this stage, where it may remain for days or months.1
- Adult: The final stage, which emerges from the pupa to feed on the blood of a host.1
Depending on the species and environmental conditions, the time required to complete this life cycle ranges from two weeks to several months.1