
Community identification
Woodlouse (specifically a Sowbug)
Porcellio scaber
- Order & Family
- Order Isopoda, Family Porcellionidae
- Size
- 10 to 20 mm in length
Natural Habitat
Moist, dark environments such as under rocks, logs, leaf litter, and occasionally damp indoor areas like basements.
Diet & Feeding
Detritivore; primarily consumes decaying organic matter, rotting wood, and fungi.
Behavior Patterns
Nocturnal land-dwelling crustacean; unlike pillbugs, sowbugs cannot roll into a complete ball. They rely on high humidity to breathe through gill-like structures.
Risks & Benefits
Harmless to humans as they do not bite or sting. They are beneficial decomposers that help cycle nutrients in the soil, though they can be considered a nuisance if they enter homes in large numbers.