Body Louse (Nymph)

Scientific Name: Pediculus humanus humanus

Order & Family: Order: Psocodea (formerly Phthiraptera); Family: Pediculidae

Size: 1mm to 4mm (nymphs are smaller, approximately the size of a pinhead)

Body Louse (Nymph)

Natural Habitat

Typically found on human clothing and bedding, only moving to the skin to feed.

Diet & Feeding

Strictly hematophagous; they feed on human blood several times a day.

Behavior Patterns

They live in the seams of clothing and lay eggs (nits) on fabric fibers rather than hair. They are highly dependent on human proximity for survival and warmth.

Risks & Benefits

Significant risk to humans; they can transmit serious bacterial diseases such as epidemic typhus, trench fever, and louse-borne relapsing fever. Infestations are usually associated with poor hygiene or crowded living conditions.

Identified on: 1/13/2026