Attachment performance of the ectoparasitic seal louse Echinophthirius horridus.

ABSTRACT: Marine mammals host a great variety of parasites, which usually co-evolved in evolutionary arms races. However, little is known about the biology of marine mammal insect parasites, and even less about physical aspects of their life in such a challenging environment. One of 13 insect species that manage to endure long diving periods in the open sea is the seal louse, Echinophthirius horridus, parasitising true seals. Its survival depends on its specialised adaptations for enduring extreme conditions such as hypoxia, temperature changes, hydrostatic pressure, and strong drag forces during host dives. To maintain a grip on the seal fur, the louse's leg morphology is equipped with modified snap hook claws and soft pad-like structures that enhance friction. Through techniques including CLSM, SE

SUBMITTER: Preuss A 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC10770372 | biostudies-literature | 2024 Jan

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature