Psocid (Booklouse)

Natural Habitat

Damp, humid environments. Indoors, they are found in books, papers, stored food, wallpaper, furniture, and any areas with mold growth. Outdoors, in bark, leaf litter, and under stones.

Diet & Feeding

Mould, fungi, starches (e.g., from book bindings, wallpaper paste), dead insects, pollen, and other organic detritus.

Behavior Patterns

They are typically slow-moving and prefer dark, secluded places. They reproduce quickly in suitable conditions (high humidity). Some species are wingless, while others have wings. They do not bite humans.

Risks & Benefits

Potential risks include contamination of stored food products, damage to books and other paper goods (due to feeding on mold/starch), and can be an indicator of high humidity and mold issues in a building. Generally harmless to humans, as they don't bite or transmit diseases. No significant benefits are typically associated with their presence in human dwellings.

Identified on: 9/22/2025