Chinese Sinentomid vs Human Flea

Side-by-side species comparison

Attribute Chinese Sinentomid Human Flea
Scientific Name Sinentomon erythranum Pulex irritans
Order Protura Siphonaptera
Family Sinentomidae Pulicidae
Size 1.5-2.0 mm 1.5-4 mm
Habitat Underground Underground
Diet Fungus Feeders Blood Feeders
Regions Asia Worldwide
Conservation Not Evaluated Least Concern

Chinese Sinentomid

A rare proturan discovered in Chinese soil that represents a unique family within the order. It has abdominal spiracles not found in other proturan families.

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Did You Know?

The discovery of this species in 1959 required the creation of an entirely new family of proturans.

Human Flea

Once common in human homes, now relatively rare in developed countries. Historically responsible for transmitting bubonic plague. Can jump 33 cm vertically.

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Did You Know?

Human fleas were major plague vectors — the Black Death that killed 75-200 million people in the 14th century was largely spread by fleas on rats entering human homes.