Bark Lice on Pines: Beneficial Cleanup Crew

Multiple pines across states show white fungal-like growth on bark. Identified as bark lice (psocids).

Identification

• Fine silken webbing on trunks/limbs
• Silvery sheen, not on twigs/leaves
• Hundreds of tiny insects under webbing
• "Tree cattle" — graze on lichens, fungi, dead matter

Ecological Role

• Scavengers: Clean bark of debris
• No tree damage
• Populations cycle seasonally
• Winter cold reduces numbers

Management

• No control needed
• If webbing objectionable: Strong water blast
• Insecticides unnecessary, harm beneficials

Reference

Auburn University bark lice guide

Beneficial insects—leave them alone.