Body louse

Typically found on human bodies and in the seams of clothing and bedding of individuals who cannot wash or change clothing regularly.

Strictly hematophagous (feeds exclusively on human blood) several times a day.

Body lice live and lay eggs (nits) in the seams of clothing and move to the skin only to feed. Generally transmitted via direct contact or sharing of infested garments.

High risk; they cause intense itching and can spread serious bacterial diseases such as epidemic typhus, trench fever, and louse-borne relapsing fever. No known ecosystem benefits.