Metylophorus barretti
This record describes Metylophorus barretti (species). Recorded family: Psocidae. Recorded order: Psocodea.
Identification and Appearance
a lot of variation in wing markings (per E. Mockford) Type Locality: Districo Federal, Mexico
Classification
Habitat and Range
Habitat
fairly common in upland forests in southern Arizona (comment by E. Mockford)
Geographic Range
AZ / Mex.
Additional species information
Species notes from the sources
Etymology: Barrett collected the type spmn.
About Barklice, Booklice, and Parasitic Lice: the wider group
Order-level background for Psocodea, the group containing Metylophorus barretti. 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 Metylophorus barretti (5)
Photo credits: Contributed by Mike Quinn
Frequently Asked Questions About Metylophorus barretti
What is Metylophorus barretti?
Metylophorus barretti is a species in the family Psocidae, within the order Psocodea.
How big is Metylophorus barretti?
7 mm (type)
How do you identify Metylophorus barretti?
a lot of variation in wing markings (per E. Mockford)
Where is Metylophorus barretti found?
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Habitat | fairly common in upland forests in southern Arizona (comment by E. Mockford) |
| Range | AZ / Mex. |