What do flea larvae primarily feed on?

Flea larvae primarily feed on dried blood from adult fleas. This dietary choice is essential for their development as they require protein to grow and progress to the pupal stage. Adult fleas consume blood from their hosts, and not all of it is digested; some of it is excreted and becomes available for the larvae. This provides the nutrients needed for the larvae to thrive.

While searching for food, flea larvae also encounter organic matter in their environment, such as skin cells, hair, and other organic waste. However, their primary and most significant source of sustenance is the dried blood left in the environment by adult fleas. This is why they show a preference for it in their diet. Understanding this food source is crucial for effective pest management and control strategies, as addressing the presence of adult fleas and their waste can help reduce the larval population.