Pubic Louse (Crab Louse)

Natural Habitat

Exclusively inhabits human hair, predominantly in the pubic region, but can also be found in coarse hair elsewhere on the body (eyelashes, beard, armpits). They cannot survive long off the human body.

Diet & Feeding

Hematophagous (feeds exclusively on human blood).

Behavior Patterns

They are relatively immobile compared to other lice, clutching onto hair shafts with specialized 'crab-like' claws. Their lifecycle (egg to adult) takes about 3-4 weeks. They are spread primarily through close, intimate contact or shared bedding/towels.

Risks & Benefits

Risks: Infestations (pediculosis pubis) cause intense itching, allergic reactions to louse saliva, and secondary bacterial infections from scratching. They are not known to transmit disease, unlike body lice. Benefits: None known.

Identified on: 2/20/2026