jigger flea

insect

Also known as: Tunga penetrans, chigoe flea

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The Information Architects of Encyclopaedia Britannica

Last updated

June 29, 2026

Quick Summary

The term "jigger flea" can refer to two distinct types of small, bloodsucking insects: a chigger (a larval mite) or a chigoe flea (Tunga penetrans). Chigoes are a type of flea, and like other fleas, they are important disease carriers and can be significant pests.12

Fleas are wingless insects that feed on the blood of mammals and birds. The female jigger flea burrows into the host's skin, typically on the feet, causing intense itching and swelling as the abdomen enlarges. This can lead to secondary infections.2

Fleas are known for their ability to transmit diseases such as the bubonic plague and typhus. They have a life cycle that includes egg, larva, pupa, and adult stages, with larvae feeding on organic debris.2

Summary created from Britannica articles using AI. AI can make mistakes, so verify using Britannica articles.

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mamey apple
…used locally for destroying skin-infesting chigoe fleas, and the bitter resinous seeds are used as an antiworming agent.
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…used locally for destroying skin-infesting chigoe fleas, and the bitter resinous seeds are used as an antiworming agent.
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flea
Importance
…jigger, or chigoe, flea (Tunga penetrans). Poultry may be parasitized by the European chicken flea (Ceratophyllus gallinae) and, in the United States, by the western chicken flea (Ceratophyllus niger).
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…jigger, or chigoe, flea (Tunga penetrans). Poultry may be parasitized by the European chicken flea (Ceratophyllus gallinae) and, in the United States, by the western chicken flea (Ceratophyllus niger).
Read More