barklouse

insect

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Last updated

June 22, 2026

Quick Summary

The term "barklouse" refers to small insects, typically less than 5 mm long, belonging to the order Psocoptera. These insects are characterized by soft bodies, slender antennae, and simple wing venation. They possess chewing mouthparts adapted for consuming fungi, cereals, pollen, and organic debris.1

While some species, known as booklice, are wingless and found indoors among old books and dusty areas, the majority are called barklice. These barklice generally have four membranous wings and inhabit tree bark, foliage, or ground litter. The term "bark louse" can also broadly describe various small insects found on plant bark, including certain psocids, scales, and aphids.12

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psocid
…majority of psocids, usually called barklice, generally have four membranous wings that are held rooflike over the body when at rest. They are found on tree bark and foliage, under stones, or in ground litter.
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…majority of psocids, usually called barklice, generally have four membranous wings that are held rooflike over the body when at rest. They are found on tree bark and foliage, under stones, or in ground litter.
Read More