Pthirus gorillae

Species of louse that infests gorillas

Pthirus gorillae

Pthirus gorillae is a species of louse that primarily infests gorillas. It is closely related to Pthirus pubis, the human pubic louse, and both species belong to the genus Pthirus. Pthirus gorillae is an ectoparasite, meaning it lives on the outside of its host, feeding on blood.

Taxonomy

Pthirus gorillae is part of the order Phthiraptera, which encompasses all lice. Within this order, it belongs to the family Pthiridae. The genus Pthirus is characterized by its crab-like appearance, with a broad, flat body and strong claws adapted for grasping the hair of its host.

Morphology

Pthirus gorillae exhibits a morphology similar to that of Pthirus pubis. It has a robust, flattened body that allows it to navigate through the dense hair of its host. The louse has six legs, each ending in a claw that is well-suited for clinging to hair shafts. Its body is divided into three parts: the head, thorax, and abdomen. The head contains specialized mouthparts for piercing the skin and sucking blood.

Life Cycle

The life cycle of Pthirus gorillae includes three stages: egg, nymph, and adult. The female louse lays eggs, known as nits, which are attached to the hair shafts of the host. These eggs hatch into nymphs, which undergo several molts before reaching adulthood. The entire life cycle can be completed in about a month, depending on environmental conditions.

Host and Habitat

Pthirus gorillae is specifically adapted to infest gorillas, particularly the eastern gorilla and western gorilla. These lice are typically found in the dense hair of their host, where they are protected from environmental conditions and predators. The louse's habitat is limited to the geographical range of its host, primarily in the forests of central Africa.

Transmission

Transmission of Pthirus gorillae occurs primarily through direct contact between gorillas. This can happen during social grooming, mating, or any other close physical interaction. The louse can also be transferred from mother to offspring during nursing or other close contact.

Evolutionary Significance

The close relationship between Pthirus gorillae and Pthirus pubis provides insights into the evolutionary history of lice and their hosts. It is believed that the two species diverged from a common ancestor that infested the common ancestor of humans and gorillas. This divergence likely occurred millions of years ago, coinciding with the evolutionary split between the lineages leading to modern humans and gorillas.

Related pages

• Pthirus pubis
• Gorilla
• Louse
• Ectoparasite