Bug Identifier
Psocid (often called Booklouse)
Community identification

Psocid (often called Booklouse)

Liposcelis spp.

Order & Family
Order: Psocodea, Family: Liposcelididae
Size
1mm to 2mm in length
See this bug in the Encyclopedia

Natural Habitat

Starchy and damp environments, including old books, wallpaper, stored food products, and damp areas of homes with high humidity.

Diet & Feeding

Microscopic mold, fungi, algae, and starchy materials like book glue, paper, and grains.

Behavior Patterns

They are scavengers that thrive in high humidity (>60%). They do not fly and are often found in large numbers if conditions are damp; their life cycle is about 25 to 110 days depending on temperature.

Risks & Benefits

They do not bite humans or pets and do not spread disease. They are primarily a nuisance and a sign of excess moisture or mold, though they can contaminate stored pantry goods.