Booklice (or Psocids)
Scientific Name: Liposcelis spp. (Common genus for indoor booklice)
Order & Family: Order: Psocoptera (or Psocodea), Family: Liposcelididae
Size: Very small, typically 1 mm to 2 mm in length.
Natural Habitat
Typically found in damp, humid, and warm areas indoors such as bathrooms, kitchens, basements, or near window sills. They are often found in books, papers, or stored food products (like flour or grains).
Diet & Feeding
They feed on microscopic mold and fungi, as well as starchy materials like book binding glue, paper, and dry food products.
Behavior Patterns
They do not bite or fly (most indoor species are wingless). They are fast runners and tend to seek moisture. Their presence usually indicates high humidity or a mold issue.
Risks & Benefits
Risks: They are generally harmless to humans and do not bite or transmit disease, but large infestations can contaminate stored food and damage books or paper. Benefits: They can serve as an early warning sign of high humidity or mold growth in the home.
Identified on: 2/25/2026