Cave Barklice

Psyllipsocidae

Classification

Phylum: Arthropoda
Subphylum: Hexapoda
Class: Insecta
Order: Psocodea
Suborder: Trogiomorpha
Infraorder: Psocathropetae
Family: Psyllipsocidae

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Psyllipsocidae: //ˌsɪlɪpˈsɒsɪˌdiː//

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

Images

Dorypteryx domestica 20140502 i37 by Arp. Used under a Public domain license.

Dorypteryx domestica 20140502 i41 by Arp. Used under a Public domain license.

Dorypteryx domestica by Henry25. Used under a CC BY 4.0 license.

Staublaus Psocoptera 200606 D5D by Bernd Hofmann. Used under a CC BY-SA 3.0 license.

Dorypteryx domestica 20140502 i35 by Arp. Used under a Public domain license.

Dorypteryx domestica 20140502 i44 by Arp. Used under a Public domain license.

Summary

Psyllipsocidae, commonly known as cave barklice, is a family of small insects characterized by flattened bodies and long antennae. They thrive in dark, humid environments like caves and termite nests, contributing to the decomposition of organic matter.

Physical Characteristics

Small, often pale or translucent insects with distinctive flattened bodies and long antennae. They possess membranous wings which are held over their bodies in a tent-like position when at rest.

Identification Tips

Look for their elongated bodies and wings, which can have a unique posture. Often found in dark, humid environments such as caves or nests.

Habitat

Caves, homes, and termite nests primarily in tropical regions.

Distribution

Approximately 70 described species in various regions, predominantly in tropical environments.

Diet

Primarily feed on algae, lichen, and decaying plant material.

Life Cycle

Life cycle details are variable across species but generally include egg, nymph, and adult stages, with nymphs resembling adults but being smaller and wingless.

Reproduction

Reproduction likely involves the laying of eggs, with some species exhibiting parental care behaviors.

Predators

Predators include various insectivorous animals, such as spiders and small birds.

Ecosystem Role

Serve as decomposers, contributing to the breakdown of organic matter in their habitats.

Collecting Methods

Light traps
Manual collection from habitats
Leaf litter collection

Preservation Methods

Alcohol preservation
Pinned specimens
Slide mounts for microscopic examination

Evolution

Part of the order Psocodea, with evolutionary adaptations for living in dark, humid environments.

Similar Taxa

Misconceptions

Often mistaken for harmful pests, but they are generally harmless and play beneficial roles in their ecosystems.