Alabama Cave Silverfish vs Mole Flea

Side-by-side species comparison

Attribute Alabama Cave Silverfish Mole Flea
Scientific Name Speleonycta sp. nov. Alabama Hystrichopsylla talpae
Order Zygentoma Siphonaptera
Family Nicoletiidae Hystrichopsyllidae
Size 8-12 mm 4-6 mm
Habitat Caves Caves
Diet Fungus Feeders Blood Feeders
Regions United States Europe
Conservation Data Deficient Least Concern

Alabama Cave Silverfish

A recently described cave silverfish from northern Alabama caves. It is completely blind and unpigmented, representing a new genus.

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Did You Know?

It was described in 2024, showing that new cave species are still being found in well-explored regions.

Mole Flea

The largest European flea, found on moles and other burrowing mammals.

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Did You Know?

At six millimeters it is easily visible to the naked eye unlike most flea species.