Bug Identifier
Woodlouse
Community identification

Woodlouse

Armadillidium vulgare

Order & Family
Order: Isopoda; Family: Armadillidiidae
Size
Generally 10-18 mm (0.4-0.7 inches) in length.
See this bug in the Encyclopedia

Natural Habitat

Damp, dark places such as under rocks, leaf litter, and woodpiles; found globally in temperate and tropical environments.

Diet & Feeding

Primarily detritivorous, feeding on decaying organic matter, fungi, and occasionally tender plant material.

Behavior Patterns

Nocturnal and moisture-dependent. Many species exhibit 'conglobation'—rolling into a tight ball for protection and to conserve moisture. They go through incomplete metamorphosis, with young appearing as miniature versions of adults.

Risks & Benefits

Benefits the ecosystem by breaking down organic matter and recycling nutrients. They pose no risk to humans as they do not bite, sting, or spread disease, though they can occasionally damage young seedlings in gardens.