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Booklice Treatment, Eradication and Extermination
The booklice is tiny grey or brown insects generally found in damp, warm, undisturbed areas in buildings, where it feeds on microscopic mold and mildew.
This little bug appeared on earth approximately 295–248 million years ago.
Contrary to popular opinion, book lice do not bite humans or animals, spread disease or damage household furnishings, however they can sometimes cause mild skin irritation.
Outdoor species are often referred to as bark lice, since they are normally found under tree bark or leaves.
Appearance
Adult booklice are soft-bodied ‘greyish-white’ insects about 1-2mm long and are usually wingless.
Nymphs are very small and often appear transparent, becoming more opaque with age.
Booklice Lifecycle
Booklice are all female, with development occurring from unfertilized eggs. Each female is capable of laying in excess of 60 eggs, which are placed either in clusters or laid singly.
The young white nymphs then emerge to feed on molds and mildews until they reach adulthood – a process that takes between four to nine months.
Up to eight generations of bark lice per year can be produced, with adults dying in cold weather and eggs hatching the following spring. Outbreaks are common when long periods of humid weather is accompanied by warm temperatures.
Booklice avoid light and prefer temperatures of 25°C to 30°C, with relative humidity’s of 75-90%.
Booklice Treatment
Chemical pest control is required. You should ventilate and dry areas with a dehumidifier fan and apply for below products to the specified areas.
1. For use in sensitive food areas: remove all food from cupboards, spray Protector Natural Insect Killer -let it dry- wipe down with a dry cloth and pack food back.
2. For use on soft furnishings use the efficient Protector C for a long lasting residual kill effect.
Infestations will usually disappear during late autumn when rooms are artificially heated and kept dry, but many people have found that using mothballs or mould-control products will help clear up an infestation more quickly.
