Comment on Boyde et al. (2023), 'Fleas and lesions in armadillo osteoderms'.

Boyde et al. (2023) stated that Moura et al. (2021) did not explain how fleas generated cavities in armadillo osteoderms, which is wrongly stated, also presenting a misrepresentation of what is written about this in Moura et al.

Lesions in osteoderms of pampatheres (Mammalia, Xenarthra, Cingulata) possibly caused by fleas.

In this study, the first records of lesions in osteoderms of Holmesina, a group of fossil cingulates related to armadillos, possibly caused by the action of penetrating fleas (Siphonaptera) are described. Three individuals of Holmesina cryptae (Pampatheriidae) were collected from Quaternary sediments in Lapinha Cave (Iramaia, Bahia state, Brazil). Their osteoderms were analyzed by stereomicroscope and scanning electron microscopy and alterations on their surfaces were recognized.