Pubic louse. Coloured Scanning Electron Micrograph (SEM) of a pubic louse, Phthirus pubis, also known as the crab louse, clinging to a human hair. An
Pubic louse. Coloured Scanning Electron Micrograph (SEM) of a pubic louse, Phthirus pubis, also known as the crab louse, clinging to a human hair. An infestation of P. pubis causes pediculosis, the symptoms of which are severe itching and a rash. The lice suck blood, feeding five times a day. They spread through sexual contact and through bedding and clothing. Each of the louse's six 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 disturb- ed, for instance by scratching or washing. Magnification: x40 at 6x7cm size.
Size: 3195px × 2598px
Photo credit: © CATH WADFORTH/SCIENCE PHOTO LIBRARY / Alamy / Afripics
License: Licensed
Model Released: No
Keywords: animal, crab, insect, insecta, invertebrate, invertebrates, louse, nature, phthirus, pubic, pubis, wildlife, zoology
