Pseudocaecilius tahitiensis
This record describes Pseudocaecilius tahitiensis (species). Recorded family: Pseudocaeciliidae. Recorded order: Psocodea.
Identification and Appearance
similar to P. citricola , differing in the following: reddish brown band as strong on head before and behind eye as on thorax, forewing (Fig. 257) with brown spots at distal ends of Rs and M branches, spot through areola postica at acute angle to wing axis rather than perpendicular.
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Psocodea (Barklice, Booklice, and Parasitic Lice)
- Suborder
- Psocomorpha
- Family
- Pseudocaeciliidae (False Lizard Barklice)
- Genus
- Pseudocaecilius
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
Various trees and shrubs
Geographic Range
South Florida, Mexico to Brazil, Galapagos, Tahiti
Additional species information
Species notes from the sources
Etymology: Pseudocaecilius tahitiensis (Karny 1926)
About Barklice, Booklice, and Parasitic Lice: the wider group
Order-level background for Psocodea, the group containing Pseudocaecilius tahitiensis. 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 Pseudocaecilius tahitiensis (3)
Photo credits: Contributed by Diane Young
Frequently Asked Questions About Pseudocaecilius tahitiensis
What is Pseudocaecilius tahitiensis?
Pseudocaecilius tahitiensis is a species in the family Pseudocaeciliidae, within the order Psocodea.
How do you identify Pseudocaecilius tahitiensis?
similar to P. citricola , differing in the following: reddish brown band as strong on head before and behind eye as on thorax, forewing (Fig. 257) with brown spots at distal ends of Rs and M branches, spot through areola postica at acute angle to wing axis rather than perpendicular.
Where is Pseudocaecilius tahitiensis found?
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Habitat | Various trees and shrubs |
| Range | South Florida, Mexico to Brazil, Galapagos, Tahiti |