Scanning electron micrograph (SEM) of the pubic louse, Phthirus pubis, also known as the crab louse, clinging to a human pubic hair. An infestation of

---

Scanning electron micrograph (SEM) of the pubic louse, Phthirus pubis, also known as the crab louse, clinging to a human pubic hair. An infestation of P. pubis causes pediculosis, the symptoms of which are severe itching and rash. The lice suck blood, feeding 5 times a day. They spread through sexual contact and via bedding or clothing. Each of the louse's 6 legs terminates in a massive claw, which folds inward to meet a thumb-like projection on the opposite side. The louse climbs and swings through its hairy habitat, locking into position when disturbed, for instance by scratching or washing. Magnification: x33 at size.

---

Size: 3414px × 2382px
Photo credit: © E. GRAY/SCIENCE PHOTO LIBRARY / Alamy / Afripics
License: Licensed
Model Released: No

Keywords: animal, crab, insect, insecta, invertebrate, invertebrates, louse, nature, phthirus, pubic, pubis, wildlife, zoology