How many eggs does a female louse lay per day? - briefly
A female head louse typically deposits four to six eggs each day, with some species reaching up to ten. The total clutch size ranges from 30 to 50 eggs over her lifespan.
How many eggs does a female louse lay per day? - in detail
Female lice lay a limited number of eggs each day, varying by species and environmental conditions.
Head lice (Pediculus humanus capitis) typically deposit 5–6 eggs daily, with occasional peaks of up to 10 under optimal temperature (30 °C) and ample blood supply. A single adult can produce around 100 eggs over its lifespan, which lasts about 30 days.
Body lice (Pediculus humanus corporis) lay slightly fewer eggs, averaging 4–5 per day. Their total clutch size reaches 150–200 eggs, reflecting a longer adult phase (up to 40 days) when host hygiene is poor.
Pubic lice (Pthirus pubis) exhibit the lowest daily output, usually 1–2 eggs. Their reproductive period extends to 45 days, resulting in a total of 30–40 eggs per female.
Factors influencing oviposition rates include:
- Ambient temperature: higher temperatures accelerate metabolism and increase egg production.
- Host blood availability: well‑nourished hosts provide more resources for the parasite.
- Intraspecific competition: overcrowding can suppress egg laying.
Eggs hatch after 7–10 days, depending on species and temperature, and the cycle repeats. The daily egg count therefore reflects a balance between biological capacity and external conditions.