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Booklice (Psocids) |
Risk/Damage Although a nuisance Psocids do not carry any diseases and are not a health risk. Nor are they a sign of poor hygiene or a dirty house. Large infestations, however, may cause significant damage to delicate materials such as books and furs. [back to top]
Biology and Behaviour Psocids, or booklice, are pest which can infest food, cupboards or sometimes bathrooms. There are over 800 types of Psocids, however the information given here applies to all. They like to live in warm, dark, humid places and are often found in food cupboards, especially those used for dry goods live flour, milk powder and semolina. They are frequently found in foodstuff packaging. Other sources they can be found is in old books, carpets and other furnishings, but can also be associated with new plaster which offers a humid habitat while it dries out. | Common Name | Booklice or Psocids | | Scientific Name | Liposcelis bostrychophilus | | Description | - Very small, less than 1mm
- Grey or brown
- Often appear as "moving specks"
- They can walk, but not jump or fly
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Life Cycle Psocids live for up to 6 months, during which time the females may lay up to 100 eggs. The eggs hatch after 11 days into nymphs which become adults after about 15 days. This short life cycle, relatively long adult life and large number of eggs means that they can reproduce rapidly and an infestations occur very quickly. They eat microscopic moulds and fungi. [back to top]
Control If you have an infestation, you can deal with it yourself by: - removing and disposing of all infected food;
- checking all other food. Food in cans and bottles should still be alright but check under and around the labels. Decant food in packets into jars, tins or other airtight containers;
- clear out all dust, crumbs and other debris from the cupboard;
- wash the affected areas with a weak, bleach solution (see the manufacturer's instructions for an appropriate dilution);
- ensure the cupboards are completely dry before re-using them.
You can help prevent infestation by: - keeping dry foodstuffs in a cool dry well-ventilated place;
- cleaning cupboards regularly and letting them dry thoroughly before the food goes back in;
- keep your kitchen well-ventilated. Condensation can create the conditions for the moulds, that Psocids feed on, to grow.
Environmental Health does not provide a service for Booklice (Psocids). If you are concerned or have a particularly bad infestation you may wish to contact a private pest control company. [back to top]
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