Which order is known for containing biting lice?

Prepare for the Georgia Certified Structural Pest Control Operator Exam. Practice with flashcards and multiple choice questions, each question has hints and explanations. Ace your certification test!

The order Mallophaga is recognized for containing biting lice, which are ectoparasites that feed primarily on the skin and feathers of birds and mammals. Biting lice have chewing mouthparts that allow them to grasp onto their hosts and consume organic material found on their skin, such as dead skin cells or hair. Their biology and feeding habits are distinctly different from other types of lice that may have different feeding mechanisms, such as sucking lice found in the order Anoplura.

In terms of the context of other orders presented, Siphonaptera includes fleas, which are blood-feeding parasites with a very different feeding structure and life cycle. Collembola, known as springtails, are not parasites at all; they are small, soil-dwelling creatures that play a role in decomposing organic matter. Thysanura, which includes silverfish and bristletails, are primarily detritivores and do not have any relation to parasitism. Therefore, Mallophaga is the correct answer, as it specifically identifies the order that includes organisms known for their biting habits and interactions with host animals.

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