Crab Louse
Pthirus pubis
This record describes Pthirus pubis (species). Recorded family: Pthiridae. Recorded order: Psocodea.
Identification and Appearance
Wikipedia reference for Pthirus pubis: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Crab_louse.
Classification
About Barklice, Booklice, and Parasitic Lice: the wider group
Order-level background for Psocodea, the group containing Pthirus pubis. 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 Crab Louse (3)
Photo credits: Contributed by v belov; Additional contributions by KenW