Pubic Louse vs Peafowl Feather Louse

Side-by-side species comparison

Attribute Pubic Louse Peafowl Feather Louse
Scientific Name Pthirus pubis Goniodes pavonis
Order Phthiraptera Phthiraptera
Family Pthiridae Philopteridae
Size 1.5-2 mm 2-4 mm
Habitat Underground Gardens
Diet Blood Feeders Omnivores
Regions Europe, Asia, Africa, North America, South America, Oceania South Asia, Worldwide in captive populations
Conservation Least Concern Least Concern

Pubic Louse

A broad, crab-shaped louse that infests coarse body hair, primarily in the pubic region. It is transmitted through intimate contact.

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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.

Peafowl Feather Louse

A large chewing louse found on peafowl and pheasants. It feeds on feather material and can damage the ornamental plumage of peacocks.

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Did You Know?

Heavy infestations can damage the spectacular tail feathers that peacocks depend on for courtship displays.