Booklouse (or Psocid)
Scientific Name: Liposcelis spp. (Common household genus)
Order & Family: Order: Psocodea (formerly Psocoptera); Family: Liposcelididae
Size: Very small, typically 1 to 2 mm in length.
Natural Habitat
Typically found in damp, humid environments indoors, such as shelves, behind wallpaper, in cupboards, or around molding. They thrive in areas with microscopic mold or mildew.
Diet & Feeding
They feed on microscopic fungi, molds, starches (like book binding glue or wallpaper paste), and organic debris.
Behavior Patterns
Booklice are wingless (often) and move in a quick, jerky manner. They do not bite or sting. They tend to congregate in high-humidity areas where their food source (mold) is abundant.
Risks & Benefits
Risks: They are a nuisance pest rather than a health hazard. They do not transmit diseases or damage structural wood, but large numbers can indicate a moisture problem. Benefits: They act as indicators of high humidity and potential mold growth.
Identified on: 2/8/2026