Pubic louse

Natural Habitat

Primarily found in the pubic hair of humans; occasionally found in coarse hair like chest hair, armpits, or eyelashes

Diet & Feeding

Obligate hematophagous insect, feeds exclusively on human blood

Behavior Patterns

Slow-moving, uses crab-like claws to grasp hair shafts; undergoes hemimetabolous development (egg, nymph, adult)

Risks & Benefits

Causes intense itching (pruritus) and skin irritation; secondary bacterial infections can occur from scratching; considered a nuisance but does not transmit major diseases

Identified on: 1/14/2026