What are lice eggs called? - briefly
Lice eggs are called nits. They are small, oval, tan‑brown capsules that adhere tightly to hair shafts near the scalp.
What are lice eggs called? - in detail
Lice eggs are referred to as nits. The term applies to the oval, translucent capsules that female lice deposit on hair shafts. Each nit measures approximately 0.8 mm in length and is firmly glued to the strand by a cement-like secretion, making it difficult to dislodge.
Key characteristics of nits include:
- Shape and color: Oval, initially white or yellowish; darkens to brown as the embryo matures.
- Attachment site: Typically within 1 cm of the scalp where temperature supports development.
- Development timeline: Egg hatches in 7–10 days, releasing a nymph that matures into an adult within an additional 7–10 days.
- Species distinction: Human head lice (Pediculus humanus capitis) produce nits that differ in size and placement from those of body lice (Pediculus humanus corporis) and pubic lice (Pthirus pubis).
Detection relies on visual inspection of hair close to the scalp. Nits appear as tiny, immobile specks adhered to the hair shaft; they do not move like live lice. A fine-tooth comb, often called a nit comb, can separate the eggs from the hair for confirmation.
Control measures target both the live insects and the attached eggs. Effective strategies include:
- Chemical pediculicides: Products containing permethrin or pyrethrin, applied according to label instructions to kill adult lice and, to a lesser extent, immature stages.
- Mechanical removal: Repeated combing with a nit comb at 2–3 day intervals to physically extract the capsules.
- Environmental decontamination: Washing bedding, clothing, and personal items in hot water (≥ 60 °C) or sealing them in airtight containers for two weeks to prevent re‑infestation.
Understanding that nits are the reproductive units of lice clarifies why eradication efforts must address both live parasites and their eggs. Accurate identification and systematic removal are essential for eliminating an infestation.