
Community identification
Woodlouse (specifically a Pill bug or Sowbug)
Armadillidium vulgare
- Order & Family
- Order: Isopoda; Family: Armadillidiidae
- Size
- 8 to 18 millimeters (0.3 to 0.7 inches)
Natural Habitat
Damp, dark environments such as under rocks, logs, leaf litter, and in soil; occasionally found indoors in moist areas like basements.
Diet & Feeding
Detritivorous; they primarily feed on decaying organic matter, fungi, and rotting vegetation.
Behavior Patterns
They are nocturnal and terrestrial crustaceans. Unlike insects, they breathe through gill-like structures and must remain in moist environments. Many species can roll into a tight ball (conglobate) when threatened.
Risks & Benefits
They are completely harmless to humans and pets. They provide a significant ecosystem benefit by decomposing organic matter and returning nutrients to the soil. They are often considered a nuisance when found indoors but do not cause structural damage.