Human Head Louse vs Pubic Louse
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Human Head Louse | Pubic Louse |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Pediculus humanus capitis | Pthirus pubis |
| Order | Phthiraptera | Phthiraptera |
| Family | Pediculidae | Pthiridae |
| Size | 2-3 mm | 1.5-2 mm |
| Habitat | Underground | Underground |
| Diet | Blood Feeders | Blood Feeders |
| Regions | Europe, Asia, Africa, North America, South America, Oceania | Europe, Asia, Africa, North America, South America, Oceania |
| Conservation | Least Concern | Least Concern |
Human Head Louse
An obligate ectoparasite of the human scalp that feeds on blood several times per day. It spreads through direct head-to-head contact.
Did You Know?
Head lice have co-evolved with humans for millions of years, and DNA analysis of lice has helped trace ancient human migration patterns.
Pubic Louse
A broad, crab-shaped louse that infests coarse body hair, primarily in the pubic region. It is transmitted through intimate contact.
Did You Know?
Pubic lice are more closely related to gorilla lice than to human head lice, suggesting an ancient host-switching event between primate species.