Peripsocus pauliani
This record describes Peripsocus pauliani (species). Recorded family: Peripsocidae. Recorded order: Psocodea.
Identification and Appearance

forewing markings faint but distinct enough to separate from congeners; vertex lacks dark marks ( vs P. madidus )
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Psocodea (Barklice, Booklice, and Parasitic Lice)
- Suborder
- Psocomorpha
- Family
- Peripsocidae (Stout Barklice)
- Genus
- Peripsocus
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
Foliage of shrubs, mangrove, and palms
Geographic Range
subcosmopolitan: s.FL, W.Indies, Mexico, Brazil, central Africa, Sri Lanka
Additional species information
Species notes from the sources
Etymology: Peripsocus pauliani Badonnel 1949
About Barklice, Booklice, and Parasitic Lice: the wider group
Order-level background for Psocodea, the group containing Peripsocus pauliani. 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 Peripsocus pauliani (2)
Photo credits: Contributed by Diane Young; Additional contributions by v belov
Frequently Asked Questions About Peripsocus pauliani
What is Peripsocus pauliani?
Peripsocus pauliani is a species in the family Peripsocidae, within the order Psocodea.
How big is Peripsocus pauliani?
2‒2.5 mm
How do you identify Peripsocus pauliani?
forewing markings faint but distinct enough to separate from congeners; vertex lacks dark marks ( vs P. madidus )
Where is Peripsocus pauliani found?
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Habitat | Foliage of shrubs, mangrove, and palms |
| Range | subcosmopolitan: s.FL, W.Indies, Mexico, Brazil, central Africa, Sri Lanka |
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