Embidopsocus laticeps
This record describes Embidopsocus laticeps (species). Recorded family: Liposcelididae. Recorded order: Psocodea.
Identification and Appearance
The flexuous, dark transverse lines on terga 4-6 and the broad head are diagnostic -E.L. Mockford
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
Geographic Range
coastal plain of se. US (GA-FL-TX)
Additional species information
Species notes from the sources
Etymology: Embidopsocus laticeps Mockford 1963
About Barklice, Booklice, and Parasitic Lice: the wider group
Order-level background for Psocodea, the group containing Embidopsocus laticeps. 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.
Frequently Asked Questions About Embidopsocus laticeps
What is Embidopsocus laticeps?
Embidopsocus laticeps is a species in the family Liposcelididae, within the order Psocodea.
How do you identify Embidopsocus laticeps?
The flexuous, dark transverse lines on terga 4-6 and the broad head are diagnostic -E.L. Mockford
Where is Embidopsocus laticeps found?
Range: coastal plain of se. US (GA-FL-TX)