Grey-headed Albatross Louse [Halipeurus thomsoni]
Description
This species of louse is an ectoparasite that specifically targets the Grey-headed Albatross. Halipeurus thomsoni uses its host for food and shelter, living among the feathers and feeding on the blood and skin. It is small and wingless, with a flattened body suitable for navigating the plumage of its host.
Taxonomy
| Phylum |
Arthropods
Arthropoda
|
|---|---|
| Class |
Copepods
Copepoda
|
| Order |
Siphonostomatoida
Siphonostomatoida
|
| Family |
Pennellidae
Pennellidae
|
| Genus |
Seabird Louse
Cardiodectes
|