Pubic Louse

Exclusively found on humans; primarily inhabits the coarse hair of the pubic and perianal regions, but can occasionally be found in eyelashes, beards, or armpit hair.

Obligate hematophages; they feed exclusively on human blood several times a day.

They are sedentary parasites that grasp hair shafts with specialized claw-like legs. They cannot jump or fly and are usually transmitted through close physical contact, particularly sexual contact. Eggs (nits) are glued to the base of the hair shaft.

Causes intense itching (pruritus) due to an allergic reaction to their saliva. While they do not transmit diseases, they indicate a parasitic infestation and can cause secondary skin infections from scratching. They provide no ecosystem benefit.