Booklice

Scientific Name: Psocid (Order Psocodea)

Order & Family: Order: Psocodea; Families: Liposcelididae, Trogiidae

Size: 1 to 2 mm in length

Booklice

Natural Habitat

Found indoors in damp, high-humidity areas, such as bathrooms, kitchens, behind wallpaper, in stored books, or in moldy food containers.

Diet & Feeding

They feed primarily on microscopic fungi, mold, mildew, starch (like book binding glue), and organic debris.

Behavior Patterns

Psocids are moisture-loving and thrive in humidity above 60%. They do not bite or sting; they are often found in large numbers when their food source (mold) is abundant. They are wingless (indoors) and move with a jerky, rapid motion.

Risks & Benefits

They are harmless to humans and pets as they do not transmit disease. They are considered a nuisance pest and an indicator of high humidity or mold issues. Reducing the humidity is the most effective way to eliminate them.

Identified on: 1/4/2026