Psocids or Booklice are insects associated with fungi and moulds
Psocids (Booklice) observed on a surface of a grain sack
Psocids are tiny insects associated with the presence of molds, fungi and high humidity indoors
Psocids observed moving and thriving underneath the plastic sheet
A lone psocid on the surface of a sofa
Psocids moving about on the surface of a baseboard
PSOCIDS, Liposcellis spp,
Psocids or booklice are soft bodied, minute insects (0.7-1mm in length), translucent to light brown in color, wingless, with the femur of the hind leg enlarged. It has distinctly flattened and broad head in comparison with its thorax. They are fast moving, with a character jerky motion. They are also observed actively crawling on surfaces.
Biodynamics Notes:
The female psocids lays its eggs in suitable locations and also on the surfaces of bagged commodities. The nymphs mature in 3-4 weeks.
Psocids can be found both outdoors and indoors, It feeds mainly on microscopic fungi and moulds. Outdoors these are usually found under bark, grass and leaf litter and on damp wood. Indoors they harbor in dark and damp locations like inside cabinets, on double walls, underneath sinks, and on crawl spaces under house. They can also harbor on plastered walls in newly constructed buildings that retain water for some time. Furthermore, psocids can also feed on mould growth on carpets, paper, straw and even leather. They are also found in poorly maintained storage areas, bulk goods and on bagged grains.
Booklice attack any type of dried animal or plant material, especially if it is damp, It is an indicator of moisture and humidity issues inside a facility. These insects are considered nuisance pest, wherein, booklice can be frequently observed in large numbers crawling in everything where they are present.
IPM Strategies Against Psocids
Mositure control is essential in long term management of psocids infestation. Remember that these insects are generally restricted to humid situations, measures to lower humidity, condensate and other moisture sources should be communicated to the Customer or Facility Representative and immediately addressed.
A comprehensive inspection of all area where these insects were found is vital. Find the source, locate the areas of prevalence, identify the pest supporting factors.
Vacuuming can help in drastically reducing the number of adults and eggs especially on interior surfaces.
Psocids are very susceptible to insecticide treatments. Always follow label instructions when using pesticides on applicable surface areas. Be mindful of the effects (stain, markings) of the pesticides residue on interior surfaces like wooden cabinets, baseboards, walls and other surfaces.
Awesome creature! Awesome CREATOR!
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