Psocid Identification & Prevention

Description

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.