ABSTRACT
The 23 known species of this family are referred to as bat bugs, so-called because they live as ectoparasites among the hairs on bats. Adaptations to this life developed the following specializations: a flattened body; elongate legs; an anteriorly narrowed triangular head without compound eyes; the much shortened wings that expose the apical half or more of the upper side of the abdomen; and rows of stout setae, called “combs,” on the head and certain parts of the body. The reproductive process of the Polyctenidae, markedly modified from the general insectan type exhibited by most heteropterans, is referred to as “pseudoplacen-talviviparity.” The method of insemination, but Hagan. The nymphs, issuing singly and at intervals during the life of the parent, leave the reproductive tract in an advanced stage and pass through only two postnatal molts before transforming into the adult stage. Haean further noted embrvoes in Dostnatalnymphs, which suggests insemination may take place before the female reaches adulthood.
