TABLE OF CONTENTS
Suborder Ischnocera (Lice): Characteristics and Identification
Ischnocera is a suborder of chewing lice (Phthiraptera) that includes parasitic lice found primarily on birds and mammals. They are characterized by a relatively broad head, long filiform antennae, biting mouthparts, absence of maxillary palps, and distinctive thoracic and abdominal segmentation.
Characteristics and Identification
- Ischnocera lice have a broader head. The antennae are long and filiform (filament-like), visible on the sides of the head, and typically have 3–5 segments, depending on the family.
- Mouthparts are adapted for biting. The mandibles lie at an angle to the head and move transversely (side to side) during biting.
- Maxillary palps are absent.
- The prothorax is free, while the mesothorax and metathorax are fused.
- They are parasitic on birds and mammals.
- Abdominal segments 1 and 2, and 9 and 10, are fused.
- They are relatively lethargic lice.
