Question

Booklice belongs to the insect order:

• A. Isoptera
• B. Psocoptera
• C. Mallophaga
• D. Hemiptera

Hint:

Booklice and barklice are the common names for insects in the order Psocoptera, characterized by their small size, soft bodies, and habit of feeding on organic matter.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is B

Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
Insect orders are classified based on evolutionary relationships, wing structure, mouthpart morphology, and metamorphosis type.
Booklice are small, soft-bodied, primitive insects commonly found in damp, undisturbed indoor environments.

Step 2: Detailed Explanation:
Let us review the characteristics of the listed orders:
- Isoptera: This order contains termites, which are social, wood-feeding insects. (False)
- Mallophaga: This order contains chewing lice, which are obligate ectoparasites of birds and mammals. (False)
- Hemiptera: This order contains true bugs, characterized by piercing-sucking mouthparts. (False)
- Psocoptera: This order contains booklice and barklice.
These small (typically 1-2 mm), wingless or winged insects have chewing mouthparts and feed on mold, fungi, starch, paste, and organic debris.
They are often found in old books, damp paper, or under tree bark, which is why they are called booklice.
Therefore, booklice belong to the order Psocoptera.

Step 3: Final Answer
The correct option is (B).