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Size: |
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Very tiny, about 1/16 inch (1.5 to 2.0 mm) long, with a broad, oval body. |
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Characteristics: |
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Difficult to see against a light surface due to small size and light color. Has a short, distinctly crab-like body with well developed claws and pale reddish legs. |
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Color: |
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Whitish with a dusky patch on each shoulder and pale reddish legs. |
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Where Found: |
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Throughout the United States and the world. |
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Habitat: |
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Most often found in the pubic hair area of adult humans where they cling to the pubic hair with highly modified claws; in case of heavy infestation, can also be found on coarse hair in beards, mustaches, on the torso or even the eyebrows. If removed from the host, will die within 12 hours or less than 2 days. |
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Food: |
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These insects are blood feeders. |
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Biology: |
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Females lay two or three whitish eggs during a 24 hour period and may lay 15 to 50 eggs in a lifetime. Eggs hatch in six to eight days. The first instar (stage) nymphs feed for about five to six days before molting. The second and third instars completed with 23-27 days. Mature adults live for about 20 to 25 days. |
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Damage: |
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Bites can cause severe itch and skin irritation due to infection. “Blue spots” may result from the bite and are 0.2 to 3.0 cm in diameter, with an irregular outline. Do not transmit disease agents. |
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Invasion: |
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Mainly acquired through sexual contact. Can also be innocently acquired through other means, such as sharing a bed with an infested person. Not found on any other animal and not found on children prior to puberty. |
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Control: |
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Prevention is the best method of control. First symptom is itching. See a physician for proper diagnosis and treatment. There is usually no need for a pesticide application as this insect dies shortly if not on its host. Follow their instructions and use prescribed medications as directed. Wash entire body thoroughly with soapy water and/or specially recommended shampoos. Wash all clothes and bedding in hot soapy water and dry in dryer on higher heat cycle. It is important to alert one’s sexual partner as to the presence of pubic lice because precaution or treatment may be required. |
