The ‘head’ and ‘body’ races of Pediculus humanus L.

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Abstract
Measurements were made on the head length, head width, body length, antenna length, length and width of 3d antennal segment of head and body lice. All of the lice measured were from natural infestations. Head and body lice reared for over 2 years did not change in size. Hybrids (female body x male head lice) were fertile for several generations. Head lice were more susceptible to starvations than body lice. When adults of 2 strains were mixed, there was no tendency toward homogeneous mating. Evidence is presented to show there are some genetic differences between head lice and body lice and they should be considered as varieties. Use of the following names is suggested P. humanus humanus L. and P. pediculus capitis DeG.
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