Loensia moesta
This record describes Loensia moesta (species). Recorded family: Psocidae. Recorded order: Psocodea.
Identification and Appearance
The black speckles all over the forewing are nicely diagnostic. When compared to the similar genus Trichadentecnum you will see that Loensia lacks the arc of 6 spots in the last 1/4 of the wing (one in the base of each cell). The very dark (almost black) spot in the centre of the wing gives it away as moesta.
Wikipedia reference for Loensia moesta: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Loensia_moesta.
Classification
Habitat and Range
Habitat
trunks/branches of broadleaf trees & conifers
Geographic Range
e NA (NB-FL to MN-TX) + scattered populations in the Rockies - Map , concentration of centex records
Seasonal Activity
mostly: June-Oct (BG data)
Additional species information
Species notes from the sources
Etymology: Loensia moesta (Hagen 1861)
About Barklice, Booklice, and Parasitic Lice: the wider group
Order-level background for Psocodea, the group containing Loensia moesta. 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 Loensia moesta (2)
Photo credits: Contributed by tom murray; Additional contributions by Mike Quinn , Vox Sciurorum , v belov
Frequently Asked Questions About Loensia moesta
What is Loensia moesta?
Loensia moesta is a species in the family Psocidae, within the order Psocodea.
How do you identify Loensia moesta?
The black speckles all over the forewing are nicely diagnostic. When compared to the similar genus Trichadentecnum you will see that Loensia lacks the arc of 6 spots in the last 1/4 of the wing (one in the base of each cell). The very dark (almost black) spot in the centre of the wing gives it away as moesta.
Where is Loensia moesta found?
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Habitat | trunks/branches of broadleaf trees & conifers |
| Range | e NA (NB-FL to MN-TX) + scattered populations in the Rockies - Map , concentration of centex records |
When is Loensia moesta active?
Loensia moesta: seasonal activity - mostly: June-Oct (BG data).