How long before a louse starts laying eggs? - briefly
Female head lice typically begin oviposition about six to seven days after emerging from the nymph stage. This period corresponds to roughly one week of development.
How long before a louse starts laying eggs? - in detail
The female of the common head louse (Pediculus humanus capitis) reaches reproductive maturity within a few days after emerging from the egg. The nymphal stage lasts 5–7 days, during which the insect undergoes three molts. Once the final molt is complete, the adult is capable of laying eggs. Egg production typically begins 2–3 days after the adult stage is attained, so the interval from hatching to the first oviposition is about 7–10 days.
Key points of the reproductive phase:
- Onset of laying: 2–3 days after the adult molt.
- Daily output: 5–10 eggs per day, depending on temperature and host condition.
- Total clutch size: up to 300 eggs over the female’s lifespan.
- Incubation of eggs: 7–10 days before hatching, provided the environment remains around 30 °C and 70 % relative humidity.
Body lice (Pediculus humanus corporis) follow a similar timetable, with the adult stage reached in 4–6 days and oviposition commencing 2–4 days later. Pubic lice (Pthirus pubis) mature slightly faster; adults appear after 5 days and begin laying eggs after an additional 1–2 days.
Environmental factors influence the timing. Higher temperatures accelerate development, shortening the pre‑oviposition period by up to 24 hours. Low humidity can reduce egg viability but does not markedly alter the onset of laying.
In summary, a louse typically starts depositing eggs roughly one week after hatching, with the precise timing governed by species, temperature, and humidity.