Georgia Pest Control Practice Test

What characteristic do fleas display in their body shape?

1. Are flattened from top-to-bottom

2. Are flattened from side-to-side

3. Have small wings for short flights

4. Glue their eggs to animals' hairs

The correct answer is: Are flattened from side-to-side

Fleas are characterized by a flattened body shape from side-to-side, which is an adaptation that allows them to move easily through the hair or feathers of their hosts. This flattened body structure helps fleas navigate through dense fur or feathers, making it harder for their hosts to groom them away. This anatomical feature is essential for their parasitic lifestyle, as it increases their chances of survival and successful feeding on their hosts. In contrast, while some of the other choices mention physical traits or behaviors associated with fleas, they are not accurate representations of what is characteristic of their body shape. For instance, fleas do not possess wings for flight; they are wingless insects that rely on powerful hind legs to jump. Additionally, fleas do not glue their eggs to their host's hairs; instead, they typically drop their eggs in the environment, where they can develop into larvae.