Metylophorus purus
This record describes Metylophorus purus (species). Recorded family: Psocidae. Recorded order: Psocodea.
Identification and Appearance
pterostigma completely clear, with white and black border; rectangular black marks between the eyes
Wikipedia reference for Metylophorus purus: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Metylophorus_purus.
Classification
Habitat and Range
Habitat
trunks and branches of broadleafs and conifers, fence posts, sides of old buildings, occasionally stone surfaces
Geographic Range
e. US (MA-FL to IL-TX) + so. ON
Additional species information
Species notes from the sources
Etymology: Metylophorus purus (Walsh 1862)
About Barklice, Booklice, and Parasitic Lice: the wider group
Order-level background for Psocodea, the group containing Metylophorus purus. 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 purus (3)
Photo credits: Contributed by tom murray; Additional contributions by Vox Sciurorum , v belov
Frequently Asked Questions About Metylophorus purus
What is Metylophorus purus?
Metylophorus purus is a species in the family Psocidae, within the order Psocodea.
How do you identify Metylophorus purus?
pterostigma completely clear, with white and black border; rectangular black marks between the eyes
Where is Metylophorus purus found?
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Habitat | trunks and branches of broadleafs and conifers, fence posts, sides of old buildings, occasionally stone surfaces |
| Range | e. US (MA-FL to IL-TX) + so. ON |