Booklouse

Natural Habitat

Damp, warm, and undisturbed areas indoors, feeding on microscopic molds, fungi, starches, and other organic matter. Common in books, stored papers, wallpaper, and food products.

Diet & Feeding

Microscopic molds, fungi, starches from paper and glues, pantry items (flour, cereals), dead insects, and other organic debris.

Behavior Patterns

They are typically wingless or have vestigial wings (especially indoor species). They are fast-moving when disturbed but generally prefer to stay in dark, humid environments. They reproduce quickly in favorable conditions. They are not known to bite humans.

Risks & Benefits

Potential risks include contamination of stored food products and damage to books, papers, and other starchy materials, as well as sometimes indicating high humidity and potential mold growth in a home. They are generally harmless to humans, though some people may experience mild allergic reactions to their presence in large numbers. No significant benefits are known in a household setting.

Identified on: 10/31/2025