The development of fleas involves a four-phase life cycle. Beginning as eggs, fleas undergo larval and pupal stages before emerging as adults. Depending on the species, the life expectancy of a flea is eight days to two months or, in some cases, up to a year.
One pair of fleas can produce more than 1 million offspring through their offspring’s offspring in a matter of weeks.
Eggs\rThe flea’s life cycle begins when a fertilized female finds a suitable location for laying her eggs. The ideal egg site is material that the larvae will eat when they hatch from the egg. Examples of egg-laying sites might include a pile of trash, feces, or other damp, decomposing organic material. In some cases, fertilized eggs hatch within 24 hours.
Larvae\rUpon hatching, larvae feed upon the organic material. flea larvae eat for several days to weeks, storing enough protein and nutrients to last through their upcoming pupa stage.
Pupal\rWhen larvae are grown, they leave their food source and seek dry, dark places within which to pupate. During the pupal stage, fleas develop from legless larvae into adults with six legs, compound eyes, and a pair of wings.
Adult\rDevelopment time from egg to adult varies depending on species, environmental conditions, and abundance of food. Some fleas can complete their development in a matter of a couple of weeks if conditions are right.