Amphigerontia contaminata
This record describes Amphigerontia contaminata (species). Recorded family: Psocidae. Recorded order: Psocodea.
Identification and Appearance
Classification
Habitat and Range
Habitat
Branches of Latrix and Thuja
Geographic Range
native to the Palaearctic (transcontinental: Spain to Korea) ; in our area, Vancouver, BC (probably introduced) ; apparently, has also been introduced into eastern Canada (BG data)
Additional species information
Species notes from the sources
Etymology: Amphigerontia contaminata (Stephens 1836)
About Barklice, Booklice, and Parasitic Lice: the wider group
Order-level background for Psocodea, the group containing Amphigerontia contaminata. Species-specific details appear above.
Group overview
Psocodea includes ~11,000 described species of booklice, barklice, and parasitic lice. Booklice (Psocoptera) are among the most common household insects, thriving in humid environments where they feed on mold and fungi.
Ecological role of the group
Barklice are important decomposers that feed on algae, lichens, and fungi on tree bark. They help recycle nutrients in forest ecosystems. Parasitic lice have co-evolved with their hosts for millions of years, providing insights into host evolutionary history.
Economic and practical significance of the group
Head lice (Pediculus humanus capitis) affect an estimated 6-12 million children aged 3-11 in the U.S. annually (CDC). The U.S. lice treatment market is valued at over $1 billion per year.
Recorded sources for this group: CDC, dermatology research, entomology textbooks. Imported estimates may describe particular regions or reporting periods.
Photos of Amphigerontia contaminata (2)
Photo credits: Contributed by Diane Young; Additional contributions by v belov