Ectopsocus pumilis
This record describes Ectopsocus pumilis (species). Recorded family: Ectopsocidae. Recorded order: Psocodea.
Identification and Appearance
Ectoposcus pumilis was described by N. Banks in 1920. In he female, the apical processes of the subgenital plate are well sclerotized and have a short acuminate spike at the tip. Se Figure 81j in Charles Lienhard (1998)
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Psocodea (Barklice, Booklice, and Parasitic Lice)
- Suborder
- Psocomorpha
- Family
- Ectopsocidae (Outer Barklice)
- Genus
- Ectopsocus
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Geographic Range
Has been recorded in Alabama and Florida on dead banana leaves and as an introduction at Miami, New York and Boston. Outside of the U.S. it is relatively cosmopolitan.
About Barklice, Booklice, and Parasitic Lice: the wider group
Order-level background for Psocodea, the group containing Ectopsocus pumilis. 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 Ectopsocus pumilis (3)
Photo credits: Contributed by Diane Young
Frequently Asked Questions About Ectopsocus pumilis
What is Ectopsocus pumilis?
Ectopsocus pumilis is a species in the family Ectopsocidae, within the order Psocodea.
How big is Ectopsocus pumilis?
1.7 mm
Where is Ectopsocus pumilis found?
Range: Has been recorded in Alabama and Florida on dead banana leaves and as an introduction at Miami, New York and Boston. Outside of the U.S. it is relatively cosmopolitan.