Bug Identifier
Barklouse (booklouse)
Community identification

Barklouse (booklouse)

Likely a barklouse in the order Psocodea; exact species cannot be identified from the photo

Order & Family
Psocodea; likely family Ectopsocidae
Size
About 1–3 mm long, excluding antennae.
See this bug in the Encyclopedia

Natural Habitat

Often found on tree bark and foliage outdoors; may wander indoors, especially in humid areas.

Diet & Feeding

Feeds on microscopic fungi, algae, pollen, and organic debris rather than household materials.

Behavior Patterns

Small, soft-bodied insects with long antennae; typically crawl or hop and may occur on walls or near windows. The pictured individual is too indistinct for confident species-level identification.

Risks & Benefits

Harmless to people and pets, and does not bite or damage structural wood; helps consume surface fungi and debris.