Neolepolepis occidentalis
This record describes Neolepolepis occidentalis (species). Recorded family: Lepidopsocidae. Recorded order: Psocodea.
Identification and Appearance
Wikipedia reference for Neolepolepis occidentalis: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Neolepolepis_occidentalis.
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Psocodea (Barklice, Booklice, and Parasitic Lice)
- Suborder
- Trogiomorpha
- Family
- Lepidopsocidae (Scaly-winged Barklice)
- Subfamily
- Echinopsocinae
- Genus
- Neolepolepis
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
woodland ground litter, esp. over well-drained sandy soil
Geographic Range
e. US (west to NE-NM) + NB
Additional species information
Species notes from the sources
Etymology: Neolepolepis occidentalis (Mockford 1955)
About Barklice, Booklice, and Parasitic Lice: the wider group
Order-level background for Psocodea, the group containing Neolepolepis occidentalis. 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 Neolepolepis occidentalis (3)
Photo credits: Contributed by Graham Montgomery; Additional contributions by v belov