Nosy Pill Woodlouse
ExploreAnimal
Nosy Pill Woodlouse
armadillidium nasatum
The Nosy Pill Woodlouse, Armadillidium nasatum, is a fascinating terrestrial crustacean often found scurrying in damp, dark places. Named for the distinct, shield-like projection on its head, which resembles a small 'nose,' and its ability to roll into a tight ball when threatened, this species plays a crucial role as a detritivore in various ecosystems. Unlike many other woodlice, its cephalic shield is quite prominent, giving it a distinctive appearance. These hardy invertebrates are essential decomposers, breaking down decaying organic matter and returning valuable nutrients to the soil, contributing significantly to soil health and nutrient cycling.
Habitat: Found in various moist microhabitats such as under rocks, logs, leaf litter, decaying wood, and in soil, particularly where organic matter is abundant.
Appearance
The Nosy Pill Woodlouse is typically a dull grey to brownish-grey color, with an oval, highly convex body composed of numerous segmented plates. Its most distinguishing feature is the prominent, shield-like 'nose' or cephalic shield that projects forward from its head, giving it a somewhat pointed anterior. Adults usually measure between 1.0 and 1.7 centimeters in length, lacking wings or any elaborate markings. Its overall appearance is robust, allowing it to tightly conglobate into a sphere for defense.
KingdomAnimaliaPhylumArthropodaClassMalacostracaOrderIsopodaFamilyArmadillidiidaeGenusArmadillidium
Category
AnimalRarity
Common
Danger
1/5 · Very low
Snaps
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Interesting facts
Despite their name, woodlice are not insects but crustaceans, more closely related to crabs and shrimp than to true insects.
Female woodlice carry their eggs and young in a specialized pouch called a 'marsupium' on their underside, similar to kangaroos.
The 'nose' or cephalic shield of the Nosy Pill Woodlouse is a defining feature, making it distinguishable from other Armadillidium species.
They are one of the few terrestrial crustaceans that have successfully adapted to life on land, thanks to adaptations like their pseudotracheae.
Special abilities
Ability
Conglobation Defense
When threatened, the Nosy Pill Woodlouse can roll its segmented body into a tight, impenetrable sphere. This 'pill bug' defense protects its vulnerable underside and appendages from predators.
Ability
Moisture Respiration
As terrestrial crustaceans, they possess pseudotracheae (lung-like structures) on their pleopods, allowing them to breathe air but requiring a high humidity environment to prevent desiccation.
Ability
Nasal Plate Sensory
The distinctive cephalic shield or 'nose' is thought to assist in sensing its immediate environment, potentially aiding in navigating through leaf litter and soil, or locating suitable food sources and moisture.
Measurements & details
- Length
- 1 cm
- Weight
- 0.0005-0.0015 kg
- Lifespan
- 1-3 years
- Clutch Size
- 20-60
- Incubation
- 20-40 days
Diet & Feeding
The Nosy Pill Woodlouse primarily feeds on decaying plant matter, contributing to the decomposition process in its habitat. They are crucial for breaking down organic material and cycling nutrients.
Primary Foods
- decaying leaves
- rotting wood
- dead plant material
- fungi
- algae
Foraging Method
- Foraging
Ecological connections
eaten by
Centipede
Chilopoda
Predation on woodlice
eaten by
Shrew
Soricidae
Predation on woodlice
eaten by
Spider
Araneae
Predation on woodlice
consumes
Leaf Litter
Various plant species
Decomposition of organic matter
Traits
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Also known as
No aliases listed yet.
Collections
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Safety
Danger
1/5 · Very low
No special safety notes yet.
Frequently Asked Questions
How to identify Nosy Pill Woodlouse?
The easiest way to identify Nosy Pill Woodlouse is to use the Snappit nature identifier app.
How long is Nosy Pill Woodlouse?
1 cm
How much does Nosy Pill Woodlouse weigh?
0.0005-0.0015 kg
How long does Nosy Pill Woodlouse live?
1-3 years
What does Nosy Pill Woodlouse eat?
The Nosy Pill Woodlouse primarily feeds on decaying plant matter, contributing to the decomposition process in its habitat. They are crucial for breaking down organic material and cycling nutrients.
Where is Nosy Pill Woodlouse usually found?
Found in various moist microhabitats such as under rocks, logs, leaf litter, decaying wood, and in soil, particularly where organic matter is abundant.
How does Nosy Pill Woodlouse hunt?
Foraging
How many eggs does Nosy Pill Woodlouse lay?
20-60
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