Black-footed Albatross Louse [Halipeurus phoebetriae]
Description
Halipeurus phoebetriae is a species of seabird louse that exclusively parasitizes the Black-footed Albatross. This louse is highly specialized, feeding on the blood, skin, and feathers of its host. Its small size and flattened body allow it to move easily through the dense plumage of the albatross.
Taxonomy
| Phylum |
Arthropods
Arthropoda
|
|---|---|
| Class |
Copepods
Copepoda
|
| Order |
Siphonostomatoida
Siphonostomatoida
|
| Family |
Pennellidae
Pennellidae
|
| Genus |
Seabird Louse
Cardiodectes
|