Community identification
Head Louse (Eggs/Nits)
Pediculus humanus capitis
- Order & Family
- Order: Psocodea (formerly Phthiraptera), Family: Pediculidae
- Size
- Nits are approximately 0.8 mm long; adults range from 2.5 mm to 3.5 mm.
Natural Habitat
Found exclusively on the human scalp, typically attaching eggs (nits) to hair shafts close to the scalp.
Diet & Feeding
Obligate parasites that feed exclusively on human blood several times a day.
Behavior Patterns
Nits are glued to hair shafts by females and hatch in 6-9 days. Adults are wingless and crawl; they cannot jump or fly.
Risks & Benefits
Risks include intense itching and secondary skin infections from scratching; they do not transmit diseases. No known ecosystem benefits.