Mesopsocus immunis

(Stephens, 1836)

woodland barklouse

Mesopsocus immunis is a barklouse in the Mesopsocidae, commonly known as the woodland barklouse. It occurs across Western Europe and Hungary, inhabiting woodland environments where it feeds on lichens, , and other organic material on tree bark. The species has been introduced to North America, with records from Canada.

Mesopsocus sp. (14322436855) by Donald Hobern from Copenhagen, Denmark. Used under a CC BY 2.0 license.Mesopsocus sp. (14299292866) by Donald Hobern from Copenhagen, Denmark. Used under a CC BY 2.0 license.Mesopsocus sp. (14135774228) by Donald Hobern from Copenhagen, Denmark. Used under a CC BY 2.0 license.

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Mesopsocus immunis: //ˌmɛs.əpˈsoʊ.kəs ɪˈmjuː.nɪs//

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Images

Habitat

Woodland environments, particularly on tree bark where it feeds on epiphytic growths.

Distribution

Western Europe (excluding Denmark and Iceland), Hungary, Morocco, and introduced to Canada.

Diet

Lichens, , and organic detritus on tree bark surfaces.

Ecological Role

Decomposer; contributes to nutrient cycling by consuming and breaking down epiphytic organic material on trees.

Similar Taxa

  • Mesopsocus unipunctatusSimilar size and preference; distinguished by wing markings and genitalia structure.

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Sources and further reading