What are louse larvae called? - briefly
The immature stage of a louse is called a nymph.
What are louse larvae called? - in detail
The immature stage of a louse is referred to as a nymph. After hatching from an egg (often called a nit), the organism enters the first nymphal instar. Lice undergo three successive nymphal instars before reaching adulthood; each instar resembles the adult in overall shape but is smaller and lacks fully developed reproductive organs.
Key characteristics of the nymphal stage:
- First instar: newly emerged, translucent, limited mobility, begins feeding on host blood.
- Second instar: darker coloration, increased size, more robust legs for clinging to hair or feathers.
- Third instar: near‑adult dimensions, mature mouthparts for efficient blood extraction, still immature reproductive system.
Molting occurs between instars, shedding the exoskeleton to allow growth. The duration of each instar varies by species and environmental conditions, typically ranging from several days to a week. Completion of the three nymphal molts marks the transition to the adult form, which then engages in reproduction.
In summary, the larval form of lice is called a nymph, progressing through three distinct instars before maturation.