Bug Identifier
Woodlouse
Community identification

Woodlouse

Oniscidea

Order & Family
Order: Isopoda; Family: various (e.g., Armadillidiidae, Oniscidae)
Size
Typically 5mm to 15mm in length
See this bug in the Encyclopedia

Natural Habitat

Damp, dark places such as under rocks, logs, leaf litter, and in garden soil

Diet & Feeding

Detritivorous, feeding primarily on decaying plant matter, fungi, and occasionally dead insects

Behavior Patterns

Nocturnal and moisture-seeking; many species (pill bugs) can roll into a ball (volvation) as a defense mechanism

Risks & Benefits

Generally harmless to humans; highly beneficial as decomposers that recycle nutrients and improve soil quality