Human Head Louse vs Short-Winged False Blister Beetle

Side-by-side species comparison

Attribute Human Head Louse Short-Winged False Blister Beetle
Scientific Name Pediculus humanus capitis Oedemera femorata
Order Phthiraptera Coleoptera
Family Pediculidae Oedemeridae
Size 2-3 mm 8-12 mm
Habitat Underground Underground
Diet Blood Feeders Pollen Feeders
Regions Europe, Asia, Africa, North America, South America, Oceania Europe
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.

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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.

Short-Winged False Blister Beetle

A dark-colored oedemerid with gaping elytra that do not cover the full abdomen. Males have conspicuously thickened hind legs.

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Did You Know?

Its elytra splay apart toward the tips, revealing the folded hindwings beneath in a distinctive V-shape.