Psocid (Commonly known as Booklice)

Scientific Name: Liposcelis spp.

Order & Family: Order Psocodea (formerly Psocoptera), Family Liposcelididae

Size: 1 to 2 millimeters (about 1/16th of an inch)

Psocid (Commonly known as Booklice)

Natural Habitat

Indoor environments with high humidity, focusing on crawl spaces, kitchens, pantries, and damp areas with mold or mildew.

Diet & Feeding

Microscopic mold, fungi, algae, lichen, and organic starchy materials like book glue and processed grains.

Behavior Patterns

They do not bite humans or pets. They are primarily active in humid conditions and are often seen scurrying in large numbers across surfaces near a food source. They undergo incomplete metamorphosis (egg, nymph, adult).

Risks & Benefits

They are harmless to humans and are considered a nuisance pest rather than a health risk or benefit. They can cause minor damage to books or stored food items if large populations develop. Reducing humidity is the most effective way to eliminate them.

Identified on: 12/26/2025