Electrification hypothesis of the absence of lice (Anoplura Leach, 1815) on bats (Chiroptera Blumenbach, 1779)

Abstract

Aim of this work is to substantiate the hypothesis that the absence of lice in bats is associated with the electrification of the surface of their body during the flight.Discussion. The paper analyzes the physical phenomenon of friction electrification, the triboelectric series of substances with special attention to the objects of atmospheric electricity, and the Cohen rule that relates the dielectric properties of a substance to its permittivity. The electrical properties of the atmosphere are described including the occurrence of a potential difference between the Earth's surface and the ionosphere and the mechanism of maintaining this potential as a result of charging the ground with negative electricity by thunderstorms. The results of experimental data on the formation of a positive electrostatic charge on the surface covers of insects and birds are presented. It is hypothesized that the hair and skin membranes of bats should also be positively electrified during flight. The reasons that prevent lice from living in electrified bat hair are described. It is proposed to explain the presence of developed sebaceous glands in bats as a way of discharging electrostatic charge before returning to the shelter and the bell structure of the hair cuticle as a device for retaining the secretion of sweat glands.Conclusion. The absence of lice in bats is a direct consequence of their adaptation to active flight.