Metylophorus

Pearman, 1932

common barklice

Species Guides

Metylophorus barretti(common barklouse)
Metylophorus novaescotiae(Speckled Barklouse)
Metylophorus purus(common barklouse)

Metylophorus is a of barklice in the Psocidae, established by Pearman in 1932. The genus contains at least 50 described distributed across multiple continents. As members of Psocidae, these insects are commonly found in association with tree bark and other woody substrates. The genus is taxonomically placed in the tribe Metylophorini within the Psocinae.

Metylophorus by (c) Katja Schulz, some rights reserved (CC BY). Used under a CC-BY license.

Metylophorus by (c) Christina Butler, some rights reserved (CC BY). Used under a CC-BY license.

Metylophorus novaescotiae by (c) Bill Keim, some rights reserved (CC BY). Used under a CC-BY license.

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Metylophorus: //ˌmɛtɪˈlɒfərəs//

These audio files are automatically generated. While they are not always 100% accurate, they are a good starting point.

Images

Habitat

Barklice in the Psocidae, including Metylophorus, are typically found on tree bark, leaf litter, and other decaying plant material. They inhabit moist, shaded environments where they can feed on microflora.

Distribution

Records indicate presence in Central America (Cuba, Guatemala, Mexico, Panama) and Northern Europe (Denmark, Norway, Sweden). The likely has a broader distribution given its .

Diet

Barklice in Psocidae feed on lichens, , fungi, and other organic debris found on bark and decaying vegetation.

Behavior

Barklice are generally gregarious and may form small on bark surfaces. They are active runners and weak fliers.

Ecological Role

As feeding on microflora, barklice contribute to nutrient cycling and the decomposition of organic material on woody substrates.

Human Relevance

Barklice are harmless to humans and do not damage structures or stored products. They may occasionally be noticed on trees or outdoor structures but require no control measures.

Similar Taxa

PsocusAnother in Psocidae; -level identification requires examination of wing venation and genitalia
Blaste in Psocidae with overlapping preferences; distinguished by morphological details of the pterostigma and areola postica

More Details

Taxonomic history

The was established by Pearman in 1932 and is the type genus of the tribe Metylophorini.

Species diversity

With at least 50 described , Metylophorus represents one of the more species-rich in Psocidae, though many species remain poorly studied.