Pubic Louse (commonly known as Crabs)

Natural Habitat

Found exclusively on humans, primarily in coarse body hair such as pubic hair, but can also inhabit eyelashes, eyebrows, beard, and chest hair.

Diet & Feeding

Obligate ectoparasites that feed exclusively on human blood several times a day.

Behavior Patterns

They are sedentary parasites that grasp hair shafts with specialized claws. They cannot jump or fly and are usually transmitted through close physical contact or shared personal items like bedding or towels.

Risks & Benefits

Risks include intense itching (pruritus) due to allergic reactions to their saliva and potential secondary skin infections from scratching. They are generally considered a nuisance rather than a vector for major diseases, though their presence may indicate the presence of other sexually transmitted infections.

Identified on: 3/20/2026