First description of nymphal stages of Hoplopleura edentula (Anoplura: Hoplopleuridae) and a global checklist of the Hoplopleura associated with Clethrionomys

Abstract

Abstract We present the first record of the characteristics of the three nymphal stages of Hoplopleura edentula, one of the common Eurasian species of the genus Hoplopleura. Lastly, a list of all species of Hoplopleura parasitizing the host genus Clethrionomys is provided. The descriptions of sucking louse species usually lack the features of the nymphal stages. In addition, it is impossible to determine whether the host is the main one or an accidental when there is a co-occurance of two or more lice species, unless we observe nymphs of the same species. As a result, data on the host cycle, the range of host specificity and other aspects of parasite-host system functioning, the possibility of transfer between hosts, and the possibility of transmission of pathogens, are incomplete. This study examines 114 specimens of the bank vole Clethrionomys glareolus, in which 38 Hoplopleura edentula were found.