The topography of the exoskeleton of Cediopsylla simplex (Baker 1895) (Siphonaptera: Pulicidae). I. The head and its appendages.

A topography of the exoskeleton of the head of Cediopsylla simplex (Baker 1895) is presented, based on an examination with the scanning electron microscope. Major sensory regions were observed on the fronto-occipital region, on the antennae, and on the maxillary palps. Sensilla basiconica were observed in all 3 regions, chemosensory hairs are absent, and unique pit sensilla were observed in the clubs of the antennae. The mouthparts are described and illustrated in detail. Other cuticular structures are illustrated, such as hairs, bristles, combs, cuticular teeth, and microtrichia. Sexual dimorphism is evident in the distribution of sensilla basiconica in the fronto-occipital regional and the clubs of the antennae. The validity of the generic name Cediopsylla Jordan 1925 is questioned.