Booklouse (or Psocid)

Natural Habitat

Damp, warm, and dark places with food sources like mold, fungi, starch. Often found in homes, libraries, old books, stored foods, and sometimes on plants.

Diet & Feeding

Feeds on microscopic molds, fungi, starch, glue (e.g., in book bindings), dead insects, and other organic matter.

Behavior Patterns

Generally nocturnal or active in low light. They are not known to bite humans. They prefer undisturbed, humid environments. They are often indicators of high humidity and potential mold growth.

Risks & Benefits

Potential Risks: Can cause minor damage to books, papers, and stored food products by feeding on mold or starch. In rare cases, large infestations might be an irritant for sensitive individuals due to airborne particles. They do not transmit diseases. \nPotential Benefits: Act as decomposers, helping to break down organic matter in their natural habitats.

Identified on: 10/21/2025