Ectopsocus strauchi
This record describes Ectopsocus strauchi (species). Recorded family: Ectopsocidae. Recorded order: Psocodea.
Identification and Appearance
Wikipedia reference for Ectopsocus strauchi: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ectopsocus_strauchi.
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
w. Mediterranean and many islands of e. and so. Atlantic; also Bermuda, USA, Peru ; adventive in our area, recorded from Boston and Miami (E.L. Mockford's comment), now also in CA (Los Angeles County)
Additional species information
Species notes from the sources
Etymology: Ectopsocus strauchi Enderlein 1906
About Barklice, Booklice, and Parasitic Lice: the wider group
Order-level background for Psocodea, the group containing Ectopsocus strauchi. 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 strauchi (3)
Photo credits: Contributed by v belov; Additional contributions by Beatriz Moisset