Recent Advances in Our Knowledge of the Order Siphonaptera

In 1964 Holland (43) reviewed the evolution, classification, and host relationships of the Siphonaptera, and he concluded We are now beginning to understand the natural and phyletic relationships of flea groups though many problems remain. But we are a long way from understanding the ecology and physiology of fleas, and from tracing a meaningful history of their host association. In the following pages we have concentrated on those areas not covered by Holland, especially the lesser known aspects of the order, together with a few unpublished observations. Systemat­ ics, taxonomy (including descriptions of new taxa and external morphology), para­ sites of fieas, medical and veterinary literature, and control by insecticides and other methods are deliberately excluded.