Skip to Content
Top
Psocids
Get started with a free, no obligation quote!
or
Call Us Today! 888-835-1225

Psocid Identification & Prevention

Description

psocids

Psocids are any insect that belongs to the order Psocoptera, a group of 5,000 species of small soft-bodied insects that are less than 5mm in length. They have long and slender antennae that are at least as long as their body. Psocids are commonly called booklice, as they are usually found indoors on musty shelves in old books and paper (thus the name) and cereals.

Biology And Behavior

  • They have mouthparts adapted for chewing, with the top part of the upper jaw elongated and chisel-like.
  • They eat fungi, molds, grains, pollen, and other organic debris.
  • You can find psocids on tree bark and other foliage, under stones, and ground litter when outdoors.
  • Outdoor species of psocids are winged, while most structural infesting species are wingless.
  • They infest food sources, kitchen cupboards, and even bathrooms.
  • Psocids enjoy warm, humid areas that are especially dark.
  • They can be found in carpets and other furnishings and sometimes even new plaster that provides a humid harborage while it dries out.
  • Some species of psocids are parthenogenetic (capable of reproduction without males).
  • Psocids carry no diseases and are not a health risk, but they are a nuisance pest, especially when found in large numbers inside buildings.
Continue Reading Read Less

What's the Action Advantage?

Find Out What Makes Us Different!
  • Environmentally-Friendly Products Available
  • After-Hours Answering Service Available
  • 70+ Certified Pest Management Professionals
  • Trusted by the Community Since 1946

Contact Action Pest Control Today!

A member of our team will be in touch shortly to confirm your contact details or address questions you may have.

  • Please enter your first name.
  • Please enter your last name.
  • Please enter your phone number.
    This isn't a valid phone number.
  • Please enter your email address.
    This isn't a valid email address.
  • Please lookup your address.
  • Please make a selection.
  • By submitting, you agree to be contacted about your request & other information using automated technology. Message frequency varies. Msg & data rates may apply. Text STOP to cancel. Acceptable Use Policy

Psocid Control Tips

  • Remove food sources infested with psocids.
  • Check food that is not infected with psocids to ensure that they aren’t present elsewhere, including under paper labels on cans or bottles or cardboard packaging.
  • Store dry food products in a cool, dry place that has good ventilation
  • Regularly clean your cupboards and always allow them dry before returning food to them.
  • Make sure the area of activity has good ventilation, as condensation allows for the growth of mold, which is a food source of psocids.
  • Reducing relative humidity below 50% and increasing air movement to eliminate moist micro-environments is the key to long-term control. 

Action's Psocid Control Services

Helpful Articles About Psocids