Booklouse or Barklouse

Natural Habitat

Damp, humid environments, both indoors and outdoors. Indoors, they prefer areas with high humidity and mold growth, such as basements, bathrooms, or areas with water damage. Outdoors, they can be found on tree bark, under rocks, or in leaf litter.

Diet & Feeding

Booklice feed on microscopic mold, fungi, dead insects, and organic detritus. In homes, they may be found in stored food products, books, cardboard, or wallpaper where mold growth occurs.

Behavior Patterns

Psocids are often found in damp, dark, and undisturbed areas. They are active in searching for food and can reproduce quickly under favorable conditions. They do not typically bite or sting humans.

Risks & Benefits

Risks: Can be a nuisance pest in homes, especially when populations are high. While generally harmless to humans, large infestations can damage books, paper, and stored food. Their presence often indicates high humidity or moisture problems that could lead to mold growth. Benefits: In natural environments, they play a role as decomposers, helping to break down organic matter.

Identified on: 8/10/2025