Host—insect interactions

Abstract

Every animal needs to maintain a steady internal environment in order to carry out the various physiological processes which together allow life to continue. The process is known as homeostasis. One of the key organs in homeostasis is the animal’s surface covering, be it skin, cuticle or whatever. In mammals and birds the surface covering has become extended to incorporate an outer insulating layer of hair or feathers. These layers have proved to be excellent homes for many different species of permanent and periodic ectoparasitic insects providing them with a relatively constant environment in which to spend their days.