
Community identification
Booklice
Liposcelis spp.
- Order & Family
- Psocodea: Liposcelididae
- Size
- 1 - 2 mm in length
Natural Habitat
Damp, warm environments such as under tree bark, in leaf litter, or indoors in libraries, pantries, and damp basements.
Diet & Feeding
Microscopic fungi, mold, spores, starches found in book bindings, and organic debris.
Behavior Patterns
Active year-round in indoor environments; they prefer high humidity. They do not fly and are known for their fast, scurrying movements when disturbed.
Risks & Benefits
Generally harmless to humans and pets as they do not bite or transmit disease; however, large infestations can cause minor damage to books, paper products, and stored dry foods.