Community identification
Human Head Louse
Pediculus humanus capitis
- Order & Family
- Order: Psocodea, Family: Pediculidae
- Size
- 2.0 to 3.0 mm (about the size of a sesame seed)
Natural Habitat
Primarily the human scalp, especially near the base of hair shafts
Diet & Feeding
Obligate hematophage; feeds exclusively on human blood several times a day
Behavior Patterns
They are wingless and cannot jump or fly; they move by crawling and are transmitted through direct head-to-head contact. They attach eggs (nits) to hairs with a waterproof glue.
Risks & Benefits
Risks include intense itching, scalp irritation, and potential secondary bacterial skin infections from scratching; they are not known vectors of systemic disease. There are no known benefits to the ecosystem.