Embidopsocus bousemani
This record describes Embidopsocus bousemani (species). Recorded family: Liposcelididae. Recorded order: Psocodea.
Identification and Appearance
Keyed based on anatomy and sclerotized structures of the thorax, phallosome, spermapore, spines on fore femur.
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Psocodea (Barklice, Booklice, and Parasitic Lice)
- Suborder
- Troctomorpha
- Family
- Liposcelididae (Booklice)
- Subfamily
- Embidopsocinae
- Genus
- Embidopsocus
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
Found under loose bark of dead trees.
Geographic Range
Recorded from Illinois, and Alabama. This record adds Georgia.
About Barklice, Booklice, and Parasitic Lice: the wider group
Order-level background for Psocodea, the group containing Embidopsocus bousemani. 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 Embidopsocus bousemani (3)
Photo credits: Contributed by Diane Young
Frequently Asked Questions About Embidopsocus bousemani
What is Embidopsocus bousemani?
Embidopsocus bousemani is a species in the family Liposcelididae, within the order Psocodea.
How big is Embidopsocus bousemani?
~ 1.5 mm
How do you identify Embidopsocus bousemani?
Keyed based on anatomy and sclerotized structures of the thorax, phallosome, spermapore, spines on fore femur.
Where is Embidopsocus bousemani found?
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Habitat | Found under loose bark of dead trees. |
| Range | Recorded from Illinois, and Alabama. This record adds Georgia. |