Community identification
Human Head Louse (Egg/Nit)
Pediculus humanus capitis
- Order & Family
- Order: Psocodea, Family: Pediculidae
- Size
- Nits are approximately 0.8 mm long; adults are 2 to 3 mm long.
Natural Habitat
Exclusively on the human scalp, typically found attached to hair shafts near the skin.
Diet & Feeding
Strictly hematophagous; they feed on human blood multiple times a day.
Behavior Patterns
Nits are glued to hair shafts by females; they cannot jump or fly and depend on head-to-head contact or shared items for transmission.
Risks & Benefits
They do not transmit disease but cause scalp itching, irritation, and potential secondary bacterial infections from scratching. They have no ecosystem benefits.