Can Fleas Hold Their Breath?

Fleas can survive up to 24 hours in water, but they can float back to life if they are removed before that time. This is because they have an oil like coating around their bodies and cuticles, which repels water. This coating extends to their trachea, which prevents water from entering the respiratory system. Despite their oily coating, fleas can hold their breath for a few seconds, but not for too long.

Fleas cannot survive in chlorinated or salt water. Saltwater is too dense for them to survive, and they will drown instantly. That’s why they need a special respiratory system that helps them survive in water. In normal water, fleas can survive for seven days, but they will drown within 24 hours if exposed to chlorine or saltwater.

Fleas are small bloodsuckers with needle-like mouthparts. They feed by piercing the skin and sucking the blood. They then secrete saliva into the blood, which is what causes the itch and swelling of a flea bite. Fleas can also carry parasites.

Fleas can survive in water because they emit a greasy barrier around their bodies. The exoskeleton of fleas is made up of a mesh that helps them absorb oxygen. Hence, soapy water is an effective insecticide.