Armadillidiidae Research Paper
Armadillidiidae, informally known as pill bugs, are considered terrestrial Isopods. They are closely related to shrimp, lobsters, and other members of the crustacean family (Wright, 1997). Crustacean is derived from the Latin word, crustaceus, which is defined as “having a crust or shell.” Crustaceans are a specific type of Arthropod, where all arthropods have an exterior shell. Most crustaceans live in the ocean, but they can be found in freshwater, the seafloor, and even land (Brandão, 2012).
There are about 4000 different types of Armadillidiidae, but Cylisticus Convexus are the only species that is able to roll up into a ball (Wright, 1997). Cylisticus Convexus will curl up when they are threatened, for protection, or to keep their
gills from drying out. To breath, they have gill-like organs that require constant moisture. Armadillidiidae live in damp environments, because without the moisture, they will essentially dry up (Jones, 2003).
Armadillidiidae are nocturnal, and spend their energy foraging in the nighttime. While foraging for food, they lose a significant amount of body water. However, they regain their water levels during the day when seeking humidity (Wright, 1997).
There are about 4000 different types of Armadillidiidae, but Cylisticus Convexus are the only species that is able to roll up into a ball (Wright, 1997). Cylisticus Convexus will curl up when they are threatened, for protection, or to keep their
gills from drying out. To breath, they have gill-like organs that require constant moisture. Armadillidiidae live in damp environments, because without the moisture, they will essentially dry up (Jones, 2003).
Armadillidiidae are nocturnal, and spend their energy foraging in the nighttime. While foraging for food, they lose a significant amount of body water. However, they regain their water levels during the day when seeking humidity (Wright, 1997).