About Woodlice
Woodlice, or pillbugs, are members of the Crustacea class, which also includes crabs, shrimps and lobsters. However, they are not aquatic and their exoskeleton is not waterproof, making them vulnerable to desiccation. Woodlice help recycle decaying material and add essential nutrients to the soil.
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Behavior
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Many behavior responses of woodlice seem to be concerned with water conservation and the need to avoid desiccation. Woodlice have also been known to curl up in a ball when confronted by predators. These creatures show positive thigmokinesis, meaning they are less active when in contact with an object. This behavior results in clusters or groups of woodlice.
Diet
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Woodlice are basically plant eaters preferring vegetation that has begun to decompose. These crustaceans do occasionally eat flesh and will consume dead and decaying animals. They will also eat other woodlice that have died or those going through the moult, or softening of the exoskeleton.
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Predators
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Woodlice have plenty of natural predators. Shrews, snails, slugs, worms, lizards, hedgehogs and frogs eat them in their diet. Small owls and foxes have also been known to consume woodlice as food.
Habitat
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Woodlice habitat include most soils, under rocks or in cracks and crevices. They need cool, moist conditions to survive. Many places that might seem too hot and dry have cool hiding places, where they can wait out the dryness and heat.
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References
Resources
- Photo Credit herb garden image by Steve Lovegrove from Fotolia.com
