Sea fleas: what you need to know, where they live and what to do when bitten

In the last few years, the former nocturnal activity of sea fleas has been replaced by daytime activity. The population of these parasites has also increased. At the moment, scientists are unable to give a precise explanation for this phenomenon.

Who are sea fleas?

They belong to a species of crustaceans. Scientifically, they are called talitrus saltator. Outwardly very similar to shrimp, only small in size – about 8-17 mm. It is almost impossible to see them. Sea fleas feed on algae, and, in turn, they are eaten by many coastal birds.

At the same time, the presence of these parasites on the beach will indicate that this place is ecologically clean. That is, the biosystem is in good preservation.

Where do sea fleas live?

The habitat of sea fleas is tropical and temperate climatic zones around the world. These crustaceans can be found on almost any sandy public beach, as well as in the intertidal zone.

They are not found in the water and seaweed itself, however, but prefer coastal areas. This is where this species of sand cicada spends most of its time buried in wet sand. This is how they hide from sunlight and heat. Due to their small size, the brown-colored bodies are almost indistinguishable. It is impossible to see them with the naked eye.

The parasite is especially active at night, as well as during the tidal period. At this time of day, it climbs out of the sand to search for food. Since the water floods the sand and washes out small organisms and organic remains, which these invertebrates feed on.

What are the dangers of sea fleas?

These insects have ecological benefits. Crustaceans clean the coast from harmful microorganisms. For this, they are often called “sanitarians” of beaches, which do not allow total contamination of the coast with harmful microbes. Nevertheless, they are harmful to humans, because, being hungry, they attack vacationers.

Humans are attacked by both females and males. However, the bites of the two individuals are very different from each other. To satiate the males need a small amount of blood, such a bite is compared to a mosquito bite.

The female, on the other hand, acts differently. She is more aggressive and dangerous. Her bites are equated with tick bites. The insect is sucked to a blood vessel and penetrates under the epidermis layer. While under the skin, it feeds on human blood and reproduces.

The female parasite remains in the subcutaneous layer until her offspring mature. Constantly feeding on blood, she increases in size significantly. As the larvae mature, the insect shoots them outward, scattering them over long distances. At the same time, the same sea flea itself remains under the skin, soon dies, provoking inflammation.

Signs of a bite

The main symptoms of the bite include:

rash;
redness;
suppuration of the epidermis in the area of the feet, buttocks and legs, groin area;
intolerable itching in the affected areas.

Remember that, despite the discomfort, it is strictly forbidden to brush the inflamed areas.

What are the dangers of bites?

Insect attack can not only cause inflammation and suppuration, but also such unpleasant diseases as tungiosis (infection with sand flea eggs) and sarcopsyllosis (parasitic disease). They are characterized by itching, red spots or reddening of the skin, a twitching sensation at the site of bites. In some cases, secondary bacterial infections, gangrenous infectious process can develop.

First aid in case of a sea flea bite

As first aid, it is necessary to wash the itchy area with clean running water. It is important to use soap to remove bacteria. To treat the site of the lesion, it is recommended to use:

baking soda solution;
alcohol;
antiseptic lotion.

An antihistamine ointment or gel should be applied to the inflamed area. This will help to reduce the rash, itching and swelling, relieve the general condition.

Remember that it is absolutely necessary to consult a doctor for consultation. The specialist will conduct all the necessary diagnostics and make a treatment plan in each specific case, taking into account all the personal characteristics of the patient. Do not self-medicate.

How to protect yourself from bites?

To protect yourself from sea flea bites, you should follow a few simple tips:

Avoid visiting the coasts at low tide;
wear beach shoes;
avoid bathing or swimming in areas with a high level of infestation (infestation of humans or animals with parasites), especially if you have sensitive skin or are prone to allergic reactions.

For prevention (after visiting the beach), you should remove your swimsuit, rinse and wipe your skin thoroughly to make sure no fleas are left on your body, take a shower or bath.

To get rid of inflammation, treat wounds on the skin, antiseptics (alcohol or lotion) should be used. Remember not to scratch itchy places to avoid infections.