Bug Identifier
Pubic louse
Community identification

Pubic louse

Pthirus pubis

Order & Family
Order: Psocodea, Family: Pthiridae
Size
1.1 to 1.8 millimeters in length.
See this bug in the Encyclopedia

Natural Habitat

Exclusively inhabits human coarse body hair, most commonly in the pubic region, but can also be found in eyelashes, eyebrows, beard, or chest hair.

Diet & Feeding

Obligate ectoparasite; feeds exclusively on human blood several times a day.

Behavior Patterns

Slow-moving crawlers that cannot jump or fly. They transfer through close physical contact or shared contaminated items like bedding. Female lice lay eggs (nits) and glue them to hair shafts.

Risks & Benefits

Causes intense itching (pruritus) due to an allergic reaction to their saliva. While not known to transmit diseases, heavy infestations can lead to secondary skin infections from scratching. They are considered an indicator of close physical contact.