What insect lays eggs on human hair and is commonly referred to as nits?

The correct answer is lice, specifically referring to the species that infest humans, known as head lice. These tiny parasites are known for living on the scalp and laying their eggs, called nits, directly on the hair shafts. The eggs are typically small, oval-shaped, and can be mistaken for dandruff or hair products, but they are firmly attached to the hair and are quite difficult to remove. This reproductive behavior is a distinct characteristic of lice, making them easily identifiable as the insect associated with nits.

In contrast, fleas, bed bugs, and ticks do not lay their eggs in hair. Fleas tend to lay eggs on host animals or in their environment, bed bugs lay their eggs in cracks and crevices near where humans sleep or rest, and ticks attach to their hosts to feed and reproduce, but they do not lay eggs on human hair. Understanding these behaviors is crucial for effective pest management and treatment options.