Booklouse

Natural Habitat

Damp, warm, and dark places with mold or fungi. Often found in books, papers, stored food products, walls, and under wallpaper.

Diet & Feeding

Fungi, mold, starch (from book bindings, wallpaper paste), dead insects, pollen, and other organic debris. They do not bite humans or pets.

Behavior Patterns

Booklice are wingless or have vestigial wings. They are fast-moving but usually stay close to their food source. They reproduce quickly, especially in humid conditions (above 60% relative humidity). They are often mistaken for other common household pests like dust mites or grain mites.

Risks & Benefits

Booklice are generally harmless to humans and do not spread disease. They can, however, contaminate food products and damage items like books and documents by feeding on mold and starches. They do not sting or bite. Their presence often indicates high humidity or moisture problems in a home or building.

Identified on: 9/17/2025