Psocoptera, also known as booklice and barklice, are a group of tiny insects characterized by their soft bodies, long antennae, and chewing mouthparts. They are commonly found in leaf litter, under bark, and sometimes in homes, where they feed on mold, fungi, and starchy materials like book glue.
- Psocoptera = "bare wings," reflecting their delicate, membranous wings or wingless forms
- Aid in decomposition by feeding on fungi, algae, lichens, and organic debris
- Include both winged and wingless species, usually less than 6 mm in length
Psocoptera primarily feed on fungi, algae, and organic detritus.
Psocoptera are commonly found under bark and in leaf litter.
Booklice (Liposcelididae)
Booklice, from the family Liposcelididae, are tiny, wingless or weakly winged insects that thrive in warm, humid environments. They are notorious for infesting stored products and indoor environments, where they consume molds and starches, including the glue in books—hence their name.
- Family: Liposcelididae
- Usually less than 2 mm long, with flattened bodies
- Can become household pests, especially in libraries, grain stores, and museums
True booklice belong to the family Liposcelididae.
Booklice can damage books by feeding on the glue.
Barklice (Psocidae and others)
Barklice are generally more robust and often winged, belonging to families such as Psocidae. They live on tree bark, feeding on algae, lichens, and organic matter, and are important for cleaning surfaces in natural ecosystems.
- Common families: Psocidae, among others
- Typically winged with prominent veins in their wings
- Found outdoors on trees and shrubs, rarely becoming household pests
Most barklice are included in the family Psocidae.
Barklice are typically found on tree bark and foliage.
Conclusion
Psocoptera are a fascinating group of insects divided mainly into booklice and barklice, each adapted to unique ecological niches.
- Booklice (Liposcelididae): Thrive in indoor, humid environments, feeding on mold and starchy materials; can damage books.
- Barklice (Psocidae and others): Usually winged, living outdoors on bark and foliage, feeding on algae and lichens, and helping keep ecosystems clean.
Psocoptera are not considered major agricultural pests.
Psocoptera act as decomposers and nutrient recyclers.