Pubic Louse (Crab Louse)

Exclusively inhabits coarse human body hair, most commonly in the pubic region, but occasionally found in eyelashes, eyebrows, armpits, or chest hair.

Obligate ectoparasite; feeds exclusively on human blood several times a day.

They are slow-moving and spend their entire life cycle on the host. They attach themselves firmly to hair shafts with specialized crab-like claws and lay oval eggs called nits. They cannot jump or fly.

Risk: Causes intense itching (pruritus) due to an allergic reaction to their saliva. Infestation is known as pediculosis pubis. While not known to transmit diseases, they are considered a nuisance and are primarily spread through close physical/sexual contact or infested linens/clothing. Benefit: None.