Fig. 1.

SEM of a negative control louse (Pediculus humanus capitis, female) with preserved smooth outer contour with a conical head, ventral constriction, and blunt abdomen. (A) Antennae and eyes are intact with preserved 3 pairs of hairs at the end of the head anteriorly. The thorax is preserving pro-, meso-, and metathorax, and 3 pairs of legs terminated with hook-like claws. Sensory hairs could be identified on the legs. Setae are well preserved. (B) Abdominal respiratory spiracles could be detected and joint spaces demonstrate the contrast between the hard body chitin and the highly flexible soft chitin. The ventral aspect of the abdomen shows preserved gonopods.