Pthiridae

Ewing, 1929

Pubic Lice

Genus Guides

1

is a of sucking lice containing the single Pthirus with two extant : Pthirus pubis (human pubic louse) and Pthirus gorillae (gorilla ). These obligate are highly -specific, with each species restricted to a single primate host. The two species diverged approximately 3-4 million years ago, possibly associated with a host switch from gorillas to humans. Members of this family possess dorsoventrally flattened bodies and broad, crab-like claws adapted for grasping coarse hair.

Pthirus by (c) Noizyboy1961, some rights reserved (CC BY). Used under a CC-BY license.Pthirus pubis Oly,WA by Kendallnorcott. Used under a CC BY 3.0 license.Phthirus pubis 001 by NH2501. Used under a CC BY 2.5 license.

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Pthiridae: /ˈθaɪrɪdiː/

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

Identification

can be distinguished from other sucking lice by their markedly broad, short body form and exceptionally wide tibial claws that resemble crab pincers. These morphological adaptations contrast sharply with the elongated bodies and slender claws of (family Pediculidae). The family contains only one , Pthirus, which is further distinguished by its restriction to coarse body hair of great apes.

Images

Host Associations

  • Homo sapiens - obligate Pthirus pubis infests pubic and coarse body hair
  • Gorilla gorilla - obligate Pthirus gorillae infests Western gorillas

Human Relevance

Pthirus pubis causes pubis, a common ectoparasitic of humans characterized by itching and skin irritation. The crab louse is transmitted primarily through sexual contact or close physical proximity. Infestations are treated with topical pediculicides.

Similar Taxa

  • PediculidaeBoth are of sucking lice (suborder ) that parasitize primates, but Pediculidae contains Pediculus with elongated bodies and narrow claws adapted for hair, whereas has the distinctive broad, crab-like body form and wide claws for coarse hair.

Tags

Sources and further reading