
Community identification
Woodlouse (specifically a Pill Bug or Sowbug)
Armadillidium vulgare
- Order & Family
- Order: Isopoda; Family: Armadillidiidae
- Size
- Approximately 1/4 to 5/8 inches (8.5 to 18 mm) in length.
Natural Habitat
Moist, dark environments such as leaf litter, under rocks, rotting wood, and damp basements.
Diet & Feeding
Detritivore; primarily eats decaying organic matter, rotting wood, and dead plant material.
Behavior Patterns
Nocturnal; they breathe through gill-like structures and must stay moist to survive. Many species can roll into a tight ball (conglobate) when threatened.
Risks & Benefits
Harmless to humans; does not bite or sting. Benefit ecosystems by breaking down organic matter and returning nutrients to the soil.