Booklouse

Natural Habitat

Damp, dark, and undisturbed places, often found in books, stored food products, wallpaper, and other paper materials, or in areas with high humidity.

Diet & Feeding

Feeds on microscopic mold, fungi, starch, glue in book bindings, wallpaper paste, and other organic matter.

Behavior Patterns

Generally nocturnal or active in low light. They are not known to bite humans. They reproduce quickly in favorable conditions (high humidity) and can sometimes be found in large numbers.

Risks & Benefits

Generally considered a nuisance pest, especially in libraries or homes, where they can damage books and stored food. They are not known to transmit diseases to humans or pets. They have minimal ecological benefits but can act as decomposers of mold and fungi.

Identified on: 10/12/2025